Kericho: Kericho County government has intensified its investment in water and sanitation infrastructure, setting in motion a suite of landmark projects that aim to guarantee universal access to clean water. The ambitious efforts mark a major shift in the region's development trajectory, with sweeping reforms that promise to transform communities from the ground up.
According to Kenya News Agency, Deputy Governor Eng. Fred Kirui spotlighted the county's intensified efforts toward achieving universal access to clean and safe water during Madaraka Day celebrations at the Kericho Green Stadium. Kirui emphasized that access to clean water is not just a development goal but a fundamental right that the county is resolute in delivering. He stated, "Our broader vision is to make equitable water and sanitation services the cornerstone of Kericho's socio-economic transformation."
One of the flagship initiatives currently in progress is the Bureti Water Expansion Project, valued at Sh100 million. This project extends from Kabartegan to Roret and is set to significantly improve the water supply across Bureti Sub-County upon completion. This initiative highlights a strong commitment to sustainable infrastructure and enhanced service delivery for local communities.
In Belgut Sub-County, Phase II of the Kapkures Water Project has been completed, providing reliable access to clean water to hundreds of new households. Additionally, the county is in the final procurement phase for the Sh2.3 billion Litein-Itare Water and Sewerage Project. This infrastructure overhaul will replace seven kilometers of sewer lines, extend the water network by 35 kilometers, and increase the daily treatment capacity from 600 to 3,500 cubic meters by 2026, connecting 1,800 new households.
Supporting sanitation improvements, Kericho has secured land for Litein's first-ever wastewater treatment facility, with a projected capacity of 1,176 cubic meters. This facility aims to resolve long-standing waste and sanitation issues in Litein Municipality and surrounding areas.
In rural areas, projects like the Kipkobob Water Project, targeting over 37,000 residents, and the Chepsir-Kwenet Water Project, which is already serving 410 households, indicate a shift toward more inclusive infrastructure development. Engineer Kirui also mentioned that over 70 micro-projects are being implemented under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLoCA) programme, focusing on enhancing water access in remote and underserved communities.
Kirui concluded, "These are not just projects on paper. They are tangible, transformative investments aimed at securing a healthier and more dignified future for our people. We are laying the foundation for prosperity, anchored on equitable access to clean water."
With its bold undertakings and forward-looking vision, Kericho is positioning itself as a regional trailblazer in water and sanitation development, setting a new standard not just for the Rift Valley but for all counties across Kenya.