Sh55-million earth dam commissioned in Kibwezi East

Patrick Nyakundi-KNA

At least 7,800 residents of the Ulilinzi and Ngwata Locations in Masongaleni Ward will benefit from the rehabilitated Uyi Earth Dam, gaining access to clean water for domestic use and for watering their animals.

The Sh55-million earth dam which was commissioned by the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) and Regional Development Principal Secretary (PS) Kello Harsama and Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo will also serve 8,000 cattle and 15,000 goats.

The State Department of ASAL and Regional Development through the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) Makueni invested Sh39 million that was used to desilt, expand the embankment and check dams.

Also, some of the money was spent on installation of solar-pumping draw-off system, construction of composite water treatment filter and construction of gravitational dozing unit and supply of water treatment chemicals and installation of 1,216 metres chain link fence.

The County Government of Makueni also invested Sh9.99 million on 5.6-kilometre pipeline, construction of two water kiosks and installation of 10,000 litres tank on six-meter towers, construction of 50 cubic metres water tank at the treatment facility and water connections to Yikitaa and Yikivuthi Primary Schools and Yikitaa Secondary School.

On the other hand, the community contributed Sh5 million through donated land, materials, and labour which is a demonstration of true ownership and commitment to sustainable water solutions.

“Our steadfast mission is to accelerate socio-economic progress in regions like Makueni. Our focus is on strengthening resilience to drought and food insecurity through sustainable interventions such as water infrastructure projects, drought resistant agriculture, and livelihood diversifications,” Harsama said.

“Through NDMA, we have been working closely with county governments and communities to implement practical solutions.

"The rehabilitation of Uyi Earth Dam is a prime example of what we can achieve through partnership and shared responsibility, aligning with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA),” the PS said.

Harsama disclosed that the dam has reduced the distance women went to fetch water to use in their families and to water animals to five kilometres from 15 kilometres.

He also challenged them to use the water maximumly especially by starting kitchen gardens and other ventures that can improve their living standards.

He called upon the stakeholders to embrace proper water governance, maintain the facility and conserve the water catchment area for posterity.

“As we celebrate this achievement, we must also acknowledge the responsibility that comes with it. Sustainable management of the dam is crucial to ensuring that it continues to serve the community for generations to come. Together we can safeguard this investment and maximize its benefits,” he said.

He promised that through NDMA, some money will be factored in the next financial year budget to expand the dam further with a view to reaching more people in the other deserving areas.

Besides, the PS said that each of the 10 sub counties in Makueni County will receive 300 bags of maize and 260 bags of beans respectively from next week.

On his part, Governor Mutula said it was his goal to have a dam in every ward, noting that issues of gender-based violence were related to lack of water.