Garissa governor Nathif Jama speaking in Waberi ward on Wednesday during the official groundbreaking and commissioning of development projects in Waberi Ward./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama has reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing persistent water shortage affecting the town and its surrounding areas.

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Governor Jama emphasised that access to clean and reliable water remains a top priority for his government.

He spoke in Waberi ward on Wednesday during the official groundbreaking and commissioning of development projects.

The governor, who was accompanied by Senator Abdul Haji, Deputy Governor Abdi Dagane and EALA MP Falhada Iman, among other leaders, noted that the county continues to invest heavily in water infrastructure to ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.

The newly commissioned twin tanks in Waberi, located at Garissa University, are expected to significantly expand water access to several previously underserved areas. These include Bulla College, Bulla Skedeg, the County High School area, Kiwanja Bure, Bulla Sambul, the Garissa Academy area, Bulla Mzuri Centre, Lower Bulla Bashal, parts of Bulla Hodhan and Bulla Sagare, as well as the livestock market and its environs.

In addition to the commissioning, the governor also launched the rehabilitation and extension of water infrastructure in Waberi ward under the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme.

Areas set to benefit from the project include Bulla Mzuri, Bulla Tawakal, Kunaso, Darulsalaam, Bulla Hodhan and Bulla Bashal. He said the pipe extension works mark the beginning of a long-term solution to the region’s water challenges.

The leaders also took time to engage with residents, listening to their concerns and assuring them of continued county support in improving essential services.

Governor Jama acknowledged that rapid urban growth in Garissa has placed immense pressure on the existing water supply system, with new settlements stretching already limited resources.

Despite these challenges, he called on residents to remain patient as the county government intensifies efforts to address the shortages, particularly in the most affected areas.

“We are committed to ensuring every household has access to clean and quality water. Significant resources have been allocated, and we will continue investing until this issue is fully resolved,” the governor said.

Residents of Bulla Mzuri expressed optimism but urged leaders to also address the persistent issue of low power voltage affecting the area and neighbouring settlements.

Senator Haji lauded the county government’s efforts, noting that water is a basic necessity that must always be prioritised.

Later, the delegation launched the tarmacking of the Bulla Mzuri–Kunaso road, now renamed Dubat Ali Amey Road in honour of a respected local elder who recently passed away after a short illness.

The project is expected to improve connectivity and boost economic activities in the area. Governor Jama was accompanied by county officials, including county secretary Mohamud Hassan Mursal, GAWASCO managing director Mohamed Dolal, Roads executive Nassir Mohamed and ward reps led by area MCA Abubakar Haji.