The Kwale government has initiated the construction of Sh14 million Mwena Dam in Lunga Lunga.
The project, commissioned on Monday, will have the capacity to produce 40,000 cubic metres of water daily.
The project is funded by the national government through National Irrigation Authority in partnership with the Kwale government.
The dam's construction aims to significantly enhance water supply and support agriculture and businesses.
Once completed, the dam will serve more than 600 households and end perennial shortage.
Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo said the Kwale administration is committed to working closely with the national government and county leadership to achieve sustainable development.
He said the county aims to improve living standards of residents and enhance services at the grassroots level.
"Once this water project is completed, residents will have access to clean water for domestic use and farming," Kombo said.
Lunga Lunga is susceptible to drought and residents, especially women and children, trek for hours in search of the precious commodity.
Kombo said the project would ensure a steady supply of clean water throughout the year and enhance development.
He assured that soon no resident would have to walk long distances or a child miss school to fetch water.
Kombo said residents would have convenient access to abundant water directly piped to their homes.
He said their administration has constructed 20 dams and 40 boreholes in two years across the county to tackle the water crisis.
Kombo also said additional water projects are underway to eliminate shortages and enhance food security and nutrition.
He highlighted the success of projects like Nyalani dam in alleviating hunger and catalysing socioeconomic activities among communities.
Lunga Lunga MP Mangale Chiforomodo praised the county government's initiatives to provide water to residents.
He said the projects are crucial in addressing long-standing water challenges, noting their significant impact on improving livelihoods and fostering agricultural productivity.
"The efforts by the county government in providing reliable water sources such as dams and boreholes are commendable because access to clean water is fundamental not only for domestic use but also for agricultural activities, which are the backbone of our local economy," Chiforomodo said.
He expressed optimism about future developments, citing ongoing plans to expand water infrastructure to reach more communities and enhance water security.
The MP urged continued collaboration between the county government, national government and local communities to sustain development projects and achieve lasting improvements in water accessibility and agricultural development in Lunga Lunga and beyond.
"As an MP, my primary role is to ensure seamless collaboration between the county government and the national government to ensure development projects benefit our residents," Chiforomodo said.
Resident Mzee Kenya expressed gratitude to the government for undertaking the noble initiative to end the water crisis in the area.
He described the upcoming dam as a potential game changer, citing years of hardship endured due to water scarcity.
"We have endured long walks in search of water for so long, but now that water will be readily available, it's a great relief to us," Kenya said.
