Homa Bay: The county government of Homa Bay, in partnership with the French government through the City of Alenya in southern France, has commissioned a water project aimed at providing clean and safe drinking water to over 8,000 households in Rusinga Island. The French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet, emphasized the importance of the project in enhancing access to clean water, particularly in light of the challenges posed by climate change, which has exacerbated water scarcity in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Suquet highlighted the project’s goal of providing residents with easier access to clean water, a basic necessity that has been difficult to obtain for many years despite the region’s proximity to the lake. Speaking after the launch of the Kaswanga water project, he noted that they have employed the best expertise in terms of knowledge and technical know-how into the project’s construction. He commended the progress of the water project, saying it is exemplary in terms of partnership, bringing together governments and people from Alenya and Rusinga Island.
The initiative underscores the strength of international partnerships, and Suquet praised the collaboration for its positive impact on the communities involved. “The work by the City of Alenya has been instrumental in fostering this partnership with the county government of Homa Bay, which has a significant impact in both countries,” he said.
Governor Gladys Wanga remarked that the project, with a capacity of 200,000 cubic meters, represents a significant step towards ensuring quality of life for the area residents through the establishment of water points and supply to schools, hospitals, and other public amenities. “This is a transformative initiative that is bringing clean water to Rusinga Island, made possible through the partnership with the City of Alenya in France, the county government of Homa Bay, and the Suba North NG-CDF. The project exemplifies a successful multisectoral partnership, bringing together local and international stakeholders to address a critical need in the community,” said Wanga.
The total investment in the project was Sh99.5 million, with the French government contributing Sh91 million towards its establishment. The county government added Sh8.5 million for the installation of solar panels and connections to power the water supply system sustainably, facilitating the supply of clean water to five villages, including Kaswanga and other learning institutions.
Wanga expressed optimism that the new water supply system will drastically reduce the distance residents previously had to travel for clean water, marking a significant improvement in their daily lives.