Kajiado) – Legislators have called on the government to release funds to complete stalled water projects in arid regions, which are crucial for improving lives and supporting livelihoods.
The National Assembly Committee on Regional Development has urged the government to allocate funds to support critical water projects stalled in Kenya’s arid areas. These projects, essential for providing clean water and sustaining local livelihoods, have been delayed due to financial constraints, leaving many communities struggling.
During an inspection of various development projects in Kajiado County, committee members expressed concern over the slow pace of implementation caused by inadequate funding, which has impacted contractors’ work.
“The government is committed to regional development funding. This committee will ensure that the regional development fund is not abolished but strengthened,” said Peter Nabulindo, Member of Parliament for Matungu, on Saturday. The legislators highlighted that grassroots water access projects were among the most severely affected by these delays.
“We have seen how these projects have transformed lives in rural areas through this fund. Since water services are devolved, county governments should step up to support national government initiatives,” added Mr. Nabulindo.
Ganze MP Kazungu Tungule criticized counties for neglecting stalled rural projects, calling for immediate intervention. The committee opposed transferring the evaluation role of development authorities to counties, arguing that the national government has effective systems for monitoring such projects.
Kajiado East MP Kakuta Mai Mai appealed for the disbursement of funds to revive stalled water projects in his constituency. “We urge the government to prioritize stalled projects when releasing funds to settle pending bills, as President William Ruto promised during his recent National Assembly address,” said Mr. Mai Mai.
The Ewaso Nyiro South Development Authority (ENSDA) has completed a few projects, including constructing a KES 25 million (approximately USD 170,000) dam in Kajiado County. ENSDA planned to build three dams and drill ten boreholes in the 2023/2024 fiscal year, covering two counties.
ENSDA’s Chief Officer Ngala Oloitiptip reported that the completed Paranai Dam in Kajiado East can supply water to 2,000 households and at least 20,000 livestock. However, the KES 16 million (approximately USD 109,000) Embolioi Dam project remains incomplete, with progress stalled at 70%. This delay forces local residents to trek 10 kilometers to fetch water using donkeys.
“Despite financial challenges, we have completed projects that have positively impacted thousands of residents in Kajiado and Narok Counties. We appeal to the national government to release additional funds to complete ongoing projects,” said Mr. Ngala.
Kajiado County remains one of the most severely affected by water shortages in both urban and rural areas. Farmers in the region rely on scheduled irrigation plans to conserve water resources such as the Enkong’u Enkare spring, while others endure long journeys to access water for domestic and agricultural use.
| Project | Cost (KES) | Cost (USD) | Status | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paranai Dam | 25 million | 170,000 | Completed | Water for 2,000 families, 20,000 livestock |
| Embolioi Dam | 16 million | 109,000 | 70% complete | Stalled; residents walk 10km for water |
| Boreholes and Dams Plan | N/A | N/A | Planned (2023/2024) | Expected to benefit Kajiado, Narok |