Kajiado: Hundreds of residents from Kajiado County took part in a six-kilometer walk to raise funds for the construction of a borehole in the remote village of Olgos, Ildalalelutuk ward in Central Kajiado. The walk was organized by the Africa Inland Church (AIC) Kajiado, in partnership with local community leaders and civil society groups, to address the persistent challenge of water scarcity in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kajiado County, which falls within Kenya's arid and semi-arid zones, continues to face severe water shortages due to prolonged droughts and limited water infrastructure. In many rural parts of the county, women and children walk for many kilometers daily to fetch water from unsafe sources, time that could be spent on education or economic activities.
John Kiroka, Deputy Bishop of AIC Kajiado town church, stated that the Olgos borehole project aims to serve not only local households but also nearby schools and livestock, easing the burden on families and promoting self-sufficiency in the face of climate-related challenges. "Women walk long distances in search of water, but if we drill a borehole nearby, the entire community will benefit, the walk campaigns show that when the community comes together, we can change lives," said Bishop Kiroka.
Maureen Pashilei, a resident of Dalalekutuk, emphasized the importance of long-term investment in water infrastructure to mitigate the effects of drought and improve livelihoods across the county. Pashilei noted that access to clean water for domestic use would ensure women no longer have to walk for many kilometers in search of it. "Women in Olgos walk over six kilometers every day just to get water for cooking and cleaning. This borehole will change everything for our community. It means more time, more safety, and a better life for our children," said Pashilei.
The event drew support from teachers, parents, church leaders, and youth groups, all united under the theme of building resilience through community-driven solutions. In schools where boreholes have already been drilled, the benefits are already visible. One such school is Il Bissil Girls' Secondary School. "With the borehole at our school, we've planted trees, started a kitchen garden which ensures that we always have fresh vegetables in our kitchen," said Gladys Mincha, Principal of the School.
The AIC Kajiado church has called on the county government, well-wishers, and development partners to support the Olgos borehole initiative, which residents believe will transform lives and empower the community for generations to come.