By Treezer Michelle Atieno
Beneath the lush green landscapes of Kakamega County lies a pressing issue that threatens its development and sustenance – water scarcity. Despite its abundant natural resources, the county grapples with a severe water crisis, leaving communities vulnerable to economic hardships, health risks, and environmental challenges.
Insufficient investments in water infrastructure, including storage facilities, pipelines, and treatment plants, contribute significantly to water scarcity. Many rural areas lack access to piped water, forcing residents to rely on unclean sources or travel long distances to fetch water.
The county and national government has been trying to address this issue through establishing water projects in the region. The first major step was the Malava water project in 2021 that enabled residents to access water for as low as Ksh. 5 for 20 liters of water.
Khushiku residents also have a reason to rejoice as their Member of Parliament, Christopher Aseka, has introduced a community water project, ensuring convenient access to a dependable and uncontaminated water supply.
Aseka emphasized that this initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing the overall quality of life for the people he serves in the Khushiku sub-location of Kisa Central ward, within Khwisero sub-county.
With a focus on sustainability, this transformative water project aims to establish a thriving community, where fundamental needs are met, and shared prosperity becomes a reality, as stated by Aseka.
During the project’s launch in the sub-county, the lawmaker was joined by various stakeholders who supported the endeavor. Once completed, this essential facility will not only restore water access but also provide clean and portable water to the entire region.
In Kenya, water scarcity is a widespread issue affecting many citizens who rely on water resources not just for drinking, but also for agricultural and fishing purposes. By addressing this problem, the project is set to benefit over 7,000 families in the area, significantly impacting the lives of approximately 15,000 households that currently struggle to access clean and safe water for their daily needs.
