Samburu County to insure water projects to cut on maintenance costs

All water projects in Samburu County will be insured due to the rising costs of maintenance.

Samburu County Governor Lati Lelelit on Thursday said the move will ensure sustainability of water infrastructure.

This, he further noted, will ease the financial burden associated with repairs.

Lelelit was speaking during the commissioning of a new water project in Murran Village in Nyiro Ward in Samburu North.

Lelelit emphasised the importance of insuring water projects as a critical step in maintaining their longevity, given the high costs of repair and upkeep.

“We have realised that the costs associated with maintaining these projects are quite high," Governor Lelelit said.

"Therefore, we are taking the initiative to insure all water projects so that when breakdowns occur, we can have the financial security to restore them promptly," Lelelit stated.

The newly commissioned project is a collaboration between the Samburu County Government and USAID Nawiri.

It is expected to provide water to nearly 1,000 households in the semi-arid region.

This is part of an ongoing effort to address the chronic water shortages that have plagued the area for years.

The project is expected to significantly improve the livelihoods of the people in Murran Village and surrounding areas, offering a reliable and accessible source of water.

The completion of the project marks a critical milestone in the ongoing efforts to address water shortages in the county.

With the added security of insurance for water projects, the county government is optimistic that the new infrastructure will remain functional for years to come.

“We are dedicated to bringing essential services to all corners of this county. Water is life, and we will continue to do everything within our power to ensure that everyone has access to it,” Lelelit said.

He welcomed the support from USAID Nawiri in improving water infrastructure in the county.

According to Lelelit, USAID Nawiri’s advanced technology and expertise in constructing water systems have been instrumental in ensuring the projects are durable and able to serve the community for extended periods.

“We deeply appreciate the support and technological input from USAID Nawiri. Their approach to water projects is innovative and efficient, and we are grateful that they are committed to helping us meet the water needs of our people,” Governor Lelelit said.

Speaking during the event, Samburu County Assembly Speaker Steve Lenamarle expressed optimism that the new water project would foster peace among the local communities.

Water scarcity has long been a source of tension, particularly among nomadic herders who often have to travel long distances in search of water for their livestock.

“With this water project, we hope to reduce the tensions that arise from resource scarcity," Lenamarle said.

He added: "The nomadic herders will no longer have to walk long distances in search of water, which often leads to conflict. This will promote peace and stability in our region.”

The residents of Murran Village, who have long struggled with water shortages, expressed relief and gratitude for the new project.

Jenerica Lenkaak, a local resident, shared her joy over the ease of access to water.

“I used to walk to the mountain for almost seven hours just to fetch water for my family. It was exhausting and time-consuming. Now, I am happy because I no longer have to make that journey,” overjoyed Lenkaak explained.