By Jael Maritim
The Tendenei Water Project in Moiben Sub-County, Uasin Gishu, has emerged as a model of success under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action Program (FLLoCA), providing life-changing benefits to the local community. The initiative, which was designed to address water scarcity issues, has exceeded expectations and continues to make a significant impact.
The project included the construction of a 30,000-litre underground water tank, a 10,000-litre distribution tank, and a 2.5 km main pipeline for water distribution. It now serves over 100 households, as well as key local institutions, including Sosiyo Secondary School, with more than 400 students and staff, and the New Progressive Farmer Cooperative Society. Collectively, these beneficiaries now have access to a total of 103,000 litres of water, a vital resource that has greatly improved the daily lives of the residents.
The successful execution of the project has been attributed to the strong leadership and supervision of key officials, including CECM Environment Mr. Anthony Sitienei, Chief Officer Environment Mr. Mark Some, Sub-County Water Engineer Noah Kebenei, Climate Unit Officer Mr. Bill Matelong, and FLLoCA Coordinator Ms. Abigael Kibet. Their coordinated efforts ensured that the project not only met but exceeded the needs of the community.
One of the most significant beneficiaries of the project, Dinah Kwambai, Principal of Sosiyo Secondary School, shared how the project has transformed the school’s water supply. With 385 boarding students and all teaching staff residing on the premises, the school faced challenges with water shortages due to two unsuccessful boreholes. However, the Tendenei Water Project has ensured a reliable water supply, even during the driest months. The school now uses 93,000 litres of water every three days for dormitories, toilets, kitchens, and laboratories, while also providing treated drinking water for students.
The New Progressive Cooperative Society, a local dairy group, has also experienced profound benefits. The cooperative uses water from the project to clean their dairy cooling plant and for daily operations. With 10 dairy cows and a 7,000-litre milk cooler, the society, along with the broader community, now enjoys a steady supply of water, supporting agricultural activities and improving livelihoods.
Additionally, local farmers, such as Mrs. Faith Kirwa, have seen immediate economic advantages. After observing the operational water tank, Mrs. Kirwa began growing short-term crops like peas. In just two weeks, she harvested 170 kilograms of peas, earning Ksh. 60 per kilogram.
Engineer Kebenei emphasized the success of the Tendenei Water Project and its wide-reaching impact, highlighting the importance of locally-led climate action in addressing pressing challenges like water scarcity. The project not only addresses an immediate need for clean water but also empowers the community to thrive economically and socially, reinforcing the critical role of sustainable local solutions to climate challenges.
The Tendenei Water Project stands as a testament to the power of community-driven development and the profound difference such initiatives can make in improving the quality of life in rural Kenya.
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