In a groundbreaking development for Kisumu City, the region is poised for a transformative boost in water supply and sanitation services thanks to a comprehensive Sh. 2.9 billion expansion program. Funded by an international consortium including the French Development Agency (AFD), European Investment Bank (EIB), European Union (EU), and the Government of Kenya, this initiative is set to revolutionize the living standards for over 120,000 residents in the western corridor of Kisumu City and its burgeoning satellite towns.
The ambitious project, which is spearheaded by the Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency (LVSWWDA), aims to extend the water supply pipeline by an impressive 155km, reaching out to the rapidly expanding areas of Maseno, Otonglo, Kisan, Kisat, and Kiboswa. With a budget of Sh.2.1 billion allocated for the water expansion, this initiative marks a significant milestone in addressing the long-standing water scarcity and quality issues in the region.
Moreover, the project encompasses the construction of a state-of-the-art Sh. 800 million sewerage treatment plant at Otonglo, designed to process up to 8,000m3 of wastewater per day. This vital component not only highlights the commitment to environmental sustainability but also promises to enhance public health through improved sanitation.
Eng. Daniel Oronje, the LVSWWDA head of sanitation, shared insights into the anticipated benefits of the project during a public participation meeting at Korando in Kisumu West Sub-County. He outlined that upon completion, Kisumu City’s water supply coverage is expected to surge from 66% to an impressive 90%, while sewerage coverage will more than double, from 16% to 40%.
The project’s roadmap includes an extensive period of public participation and technical studies, with the technical study slated for completion in June of the following year. Eng. Oronje emphasized the importance of community involvement and feedback, stating, “Once we have developed the designs, we shall come back to the people and explain to them what we intend to do before we proceed to the procurement stage.”
The initiative has garnered widespread support from local leaders and government officials. Kisumu West Senior Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Nalianya Wanyonyi urged the community to embrace the project, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various state agencies to ensure its success. Additionally, he reassured residents about the government’s commitment to compensating those displaced by the project, ensuring a smooth and equitable transition.
Marylene Agwa, Kisumu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Water and Environment, also voiced her support, emphasizing the project’s central role in the socio-economic transformation of Kisumu City. She assured that a comprehensive environmental and social impact study would be conducted to maximize the community benefits derived from the project.
This monumental project not only stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between local and international partners but also sets a precedent for sustainable urban development in Kenya. As Kisumu City embarks on this journey towards enhanced water and sanitation infrastructure, the future looks brighter than ever for its residents.
Kisumu City News
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