Water Ministry Faces Challenges in Project Implementation

In a recent Senate plenary session, the Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Hon Zachariah Njeru, addressed concerns regarding water projects in Wajir County and the delay in completing the Mandera Water and Sanitation project.

Responding to queries from Senator Abass Mohamed, the CS outlined the status of sixteen projects underway in Wajir County for the fiscal year 2023/2024. These projects, funded by the National Government and implemented by the Northern Water Works Development Agency, aim to alleviate water scarcity in the region. Exploratory boreholes, part of the long-term Wajir Water Project, have been drilled to study aquifer characteristics and address water distribution challenges in Wajir town.

The combined budget for these projects amounts to Kshs 586 Million, with completion expected to benefit 5,355 households.

Acknowledging the severity of water scarcity, the CS highlighted proposals for Mega Dams like Bute Dam to address the issue.

Regarding the Mandera Water and Sanitation project funded by the African Development Bank, the CS explained the delays. Despite commencing in January 2019, the project faced extensions and eventual contract termination due to the contractor’s inability to complete the works. Challenges such as approval delays, material procurement issues, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the project’s setback.

The CS emphasized that the Ministry’s major challenge lies in the availability of exchequer releases, hindering project implementation.

The Mandera Water Supply Project, currently at 72% completion, aims to serve approximately 400,000 people in Mandera town and its environs upon its eventual completion.

As the Ministry grapples with these challenges, stakeholders are hopeful for swift resolutions to ensure the timely provision of essential water services to communities in need.