Kitui County has been actively addressing the pressing issue of water security. Governor Julius Malombe’s statement underlines the commitment of the Government to continue its partnership with the REACH program in enhancing water security. This collaboration has been pivotal in narrowing the gap in rural water service delivery since 2015.
The county’s approach to water security is multifaceted, encompassing various key aspects. Governor Malombe outlined the county’s strategy, which is built on the optimization of water sources, development of water reticulation infrastructure, effective water governance and management, and water awareness creation and sensitization.
This comprehensive strategy forms the backbone of Kitui County’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply for its communities.
Over the past eight years, Kitui County has worked closely with the REACH program to design and implement a groundbreaking model for safe and reliable rural water supply, known as Fundi-fix.
This innovative approach focuses on the repair and maintenance of boreholes and hand pumps, guaranteeing access to safe and reliable rural water supply for local communities and schools. Fundi-fix represents a practical solution to the persistent challenge of ensuring water availability in arid regions.
The recent national stakeholder forum on climate resilience and water security in Nairobi, which was officially opened by Water CS Zacharia Njeru, has shed light on the evolving landscape of water policy and governance.
Such events provide a platform for dialogue on how partnerships can play a pivotal role in achieving water security in Kenya, especially in regions vulnerable to water scarcity.
The forum aimed to delve into a range of critical topics, including water resources management in Kenya, challenges, and opportunities. It also sought to assess the status of water quality and sanitation in small towns in Kenya’s dry lands.
Furthermore, it examined the various community engagement models in water governance and management within these arid regions.
Kitui County’s continued partnership with the REACH program serves as a beacon of hope for addressing water security challenges in regions where water is a precious and often scarce resource.
The collaborative efforts between the County Government and the REACH program have not only contributed to bridging the gap in water service delivery but have also set an example for effective, sustainable, and innovative solutions to water-related issues in Kenya’s dry lands.
In a world where water scarcity is an increasingly prevalent concern, Kitui County’s approach stands as a testament to the power of partnerships, innovative models, and dedicated leadership in addressing one of the most fundamental needs of any community: access to clean and reliable water.
This partnership serves as an inspiration and a blueprint for other regions facing similar challenges, highlighting the importance of collaboration in securing water resources for a sustainable and resilient future.
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