Three schools in Mwea East, Kirinyaga County, have received a major boost after the rehabilitation of broken borehole systems to restore access to clean water amid a worsening drought.
The region has been grappling with acute water shortages after key water sources dried up, leaving learners, teachers and surrounding communities struggling to access safe water for drinking and sanitation.
It is reported that the solar-powered boreholes had been non-functional for more than three years, plunging the schools and community in water crisis.
The three schools which has benefited from the rehabilitation are Ndindiruku Primary School, Ciagini Primary School, Ciagini Mixed Secondary School, and the Gatuiri community borehole in Tebere and Wamumu wards.
The Gatuiri community borehole will offer relief to residents who had been trekking long distances in search of water as rivers continue to dry up.
Ndindiruku Primary School head teacher Ann Ngichiri said the school had endured years of hardship after the borehole system broke down.
“For over three years, we have struggled to access clean water. Pupils were forced to carry water from home for drinking and cleaning the school,” she said.
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Her Ciagini Primary School counterpart, Justus Muthambi, echoed the concerns, noting that the water shortage posed a serious health risk.
“We feared a possible outbreak of waterborne diseases, especially during the mango season when pupils often eat fruits without washing them,” Muthambi said.
Parents, led by Lydia Wambui and David Mugo Musyoka, welcomed the rehabilitation, saying reliable water supply will significantly improve hygiene and sanitation standards in schools.
They lauded Wangui Ngirichi, chairperson of Kenya Seed Company, for supporting efforts to revive the stalled boreholes.
Speaking during the commissioning, Ngirici challenged both the national government and the Kirinyaga County Government to implement sustainable water programmes to address the perennial shortages in Mwea Constituency.
She called for the construction of a major dam and the establishment of additional water pans to cushion residents during prolonged dry spells.
Ngirici reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that all residents of Kirinyaga County have access to clean water
By Jane Mugambi
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