The government has commissioned two major solar-powered borehole projects in Taita-Taveta County, marking a significant step toward improving water access, strengthening food security, and enhancing livelihoods in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).
Presiding over the commissioning ceremony, Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development Kello Harsama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the ASAL regions into productive economic hubs.
“The ASALs regions are Kenya’s next food frontier, and unlocking their full potential begins with reliable access to water,” PS Harsama said during the launch, where he was joined by MP John Bwire and Coast Development Authority (CDA) Acting Managing Director Dr. Mwanasiti Bendera.
The two projects, the Wololo and Machungwani boreholes, were implemented by the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development through the Coast Development Authority.
Designed to provide clean and dependable water to surrounding communities, the facilities represent a major investment in climate-resilient infrastructure.
According to the PS, the Wololo borehole produces 8,000 litres of water per hour, while Machungwani delivers 18,000 litres per hour, ensuring a stable supply for domestic use, agriculture, and livestock.
“This means a steady and sustainable water supply for households, livestock, and farming activities across the region,” Harsama noted.
For decades, families in parts of Taita-Taveta have walked long distances, sometimes more than 14 kilometres, to fetch water for household and livestock needs.
The new boreholes now eliminate that burden, bringing water closer to homes and farms.
“For years, families walked more than 14 km in search of water. Today, that burden is lifted,” the PS said.
More than 3,000 households and 5,000 livestock are expected to benefit directly from the government-funded water projects, which are also anticipated to enhance agricultural productivity and improve food security.
PS Harsama emphasised that such investments signal the government’s long-term commitment to making the ASAL regions greener, more resilient, and economically empowered.
The commissioning of the Wololo and Machungwani boreholes adds to a growing list of government interventions aimed at ensuring that communities in ASAL counties have the resources they need to thrive despite climate-related challenges.