Busia: The county government of Busia has allocated Sh124 million to address the acute water shortage problem in the three subcounties of Teso North, Samia, and Butula. The water projects aim to provide over 100,000 households, including learning institutions, with access to clean water.
According to Kenya News Agency, in Samia Sub-county, Sh37 million has been allocated for the rehabilitation of the Busijo Water project near Lake Victoria. Despite the proximity to the lake, the area has faced a persistent water scarcity issue. Residents have often resorted to using untreated water from the lake, posing risks of water-borne diseases. The County Government of Busia, through the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme, plans to distribute water to over 45,000 residents in Samia, Bunyala, and neighboring wards.
Currently, 326 users, including five institutions such as Busijo and Bujwang'a Secondary Schools, Sio Port Sub County Hospital, Samia Girls and Primary Schools, and Sio Port Police Station, have already benefitted. Further connections are planned for Hakati Primary Schools and Hakati Army Barracks.
In Teso North sub-county, two major water project areas will benefit over 180,000 residents. The Malakisi-Malaba water project and the newly launched Changara Kolanya water project are funded with Sh65 million and Sh70 million, respectively, by the County Government of Busia. Governor Paul Otuoma, during a county development tour, emphasized the essential role of water in domestic and economic sustainability.
Governor Otuoma assured residents that all water projects would be completed by February 2025. He highlighted plans to utilize solar power to reduce high electricity costs, which have previously led to the collapse of water projects in the county.
In Butula Subcounty, a Sh17.8 million water project was commissioned in Bukhakhala, Marachi West Ward, benefiting over 2,000 households. Otuoma also announced plans to upgrade the Malaba water treatment plant to serve more households in Kocholia, Amagoro, and Malaba town. The upgrade involves constructing a new water system relying on gravity, drastically reducing power bills.
The county, in collaboration with development partners, has allocated Sh30 million and is seeking an additional Sh400 million from the National Government to expand water connections further.