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| Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Eng. Eric Muriithi Mugaa |
By Wasike Elvis
Access to clean water is an essential human right and a critical resource for development. In a move aimed at improving water accessibility for thousands of households in the region, Moiben Member of Parliament Prof. Phylis Bartoo hosted the Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Eng. Eric Muriithi Mugaa, Deputy Governor Hon. Kapkea Evans, National Irrigation Board (NIB) CEO Eng. Charles Muasya, and NIB Chairman Eng. Gilbert Maluki for a pre-visit and development tour of the Lower Sabor Water Project. The visit also included an assessment of the ongoing desilting works at Chepkosom, Kisonei, and Chepchobit dams.
Speaking during the visit, Prof. Bartoo expressed her commitment to ensuring that communities in Moiben and its environs have access to clean and sustainable water sources for both domestic and agricultural needs. “Water is not just a basic need; it is a fundamental right that must be available to every Kenyan. These progressive projects, once complete, will benefit over 3,000 households, as well as public institutions, by providing a reliable water supply for daily use and agricultural activities,” said Prof. Bartoo.
The Lower Sabor Water Project, which is currently under development, aims to provide a long-term solution to water scarcity in the area. Upon completion, the project will enhance water access for residents, helping improve their quality of life and supporting the local agricultural sector, which is crucial for food security and economic development.
During the visit, Eng. Mugaa praised the efforts made by the local leadership and stakeholders in the implementation of the project, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting water infrastructure development in arid and semi-arid regions. “The government's focus is on ensuring that all Kenyans, regardless of their location, have access to safe water. The Lower Sabor Water Project is a testament to this vision,” said Eng. Mugaa.
Deputy Governor Hon. Kapkea Evans expressed gratitude for the ongoing interventions in the region, noting that the water project would have far-reaching benefits for local farmers and the entire community. “Water is key to improving livelihoods in Moiben. This initiative will help sustain agricultural activities and improve health outcomes for our people,” he remarked.
The desilting of the Chepkosom, Kisonei, and Chepchobit dams is an integral part of the broader strategy to improve water storage and management in the region. These dams are crucial for irrigation, ensuring that farmers can continue producing crops even during dry spells.
As the government and local leadership continue to work together to improve water infrastructure in the region, residents are optimistic that the completion of these projects will not only address immediate water needs but also serve as a foundation for sustainable development in Moiben and beyond.
The collaborative efforts demonstrated during this visit underscore the importance of partnerships between national and county governments, as well as other stakeholders, in delivering impactful development projects that benefit communities across Kenya.