Water projects to benefit 12,000 households in Kisumu

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More than 12,000 households in Kisumu County are set to benefit from improved access to clean and reliable water following the commissioning of the Nyalunya Aqua Lift Project.

The projects, supported by the Government of the Netherlands and implemented by Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company (KIWASCO), is expected to address persistent low water pressure and supply interruptions in parts of the county.

Speaking during the commissioning of the Nyalunya Aqua Lift Project, KIWASCO Managing Director said the initiative marks a major milestone for residents who have long endured unreliable water supply.

“Today is a very important day for us and for the community at Nyalunya. This project has augmented water supply in this region and we are targeting 12,000 beneficiaries,” he said.

To meet that target, the utility plans to connect at least 2,000 additional customers. So far, over 227 new customers have been connected, with plans underway to scale up connections in the coming months.

The project is designed to ensure consistent water flow in areas that previously experienced low pressure and frequent dry taps.

The Managing Director noted that one of KIWASCO’s key commitments to customers is reliability, with the company now aiming to provide a 24-hour water supply.

“This area has been underserved for a long time. With this project, we are fulfilling our promise of reliable water,” he said.

Beyond infrastructure, the company is also focusing on sustainability.

In partnership with the Dutch government, KIWASCO is implementing a catchment restoration programme targeting forested water sources in parts of Nandi and Vihiga counties.

The Nyangori catchment area has been gazetted and reforestation efforts undertaken to curb environmental degradation and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Catchment management plans are being implemented through Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs) to ensure long-term protection of water sources.

The Managing Director said improved water supply has also restored dignity to pupils and teachers in schools within the project area.

“These are our customers, our future leaders and workforce. It is important that they live dignified lives,” he added.

The Netherlands Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Henk Jan Bakker, said his country’s long experience in water management has shaped its global partnerships, including the one with Kisumu.

“Water management is not about fighting water, but living with it. It involves dealing with too much water, too little water, or polluted water,” he said.

He noted that the Netherlands has worked with Kisumu County for the past 15 years, helping strengthen local water management institutions.

“Institutions like KIWASCO are stronger today than they were 15 years ago. They are more aware of what needs to be done and can independently run many projects and programmes,” he said.

He observed that while Kisumu often grapples with excess water due to its proximity to Lake Victoria, other parts of Kenya face drought, underscoring the need for tailored water management solutions.

The ambassador said the project’s immediate beneficiaries will be schoolchildren in the area, who will now have access to safe drinking water.

“They will be healthier and less exposed to waterborne diseases. Learning outcomes will improve. Their futures are brighter today than yesterday,” he said.

Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, who hosted the Dutch ambassador on behalf of the Governor, said the county government remains committed to strengthening partnerships that expand essential services.

He said the commissioning covered projects, the Nyalunya Aqua Lift Project and another at Nyamasaria Bus Park.Mowlem Water Booster.

The Nyamasaria project includes a pumping station and a large storage tank aimed at addressing low pressure that previously caused pipelines to run dry.

The booster pump enhances the existing water line, enabling it to serve a larger population.

Owili described it as significant that one of the facilities is located within a school, noting that access to clean, potable water is critical for young people.

“The water supplied is treated KIWASCO water, safe and ready to drink without additional treatment,” he said.

With the new infrastructure in place, county leaders and partners expressed optimism that more residents will gain access to dependable water services as Kisumu continues to strengthen its water management systems.