A multimillion water and filtration plant that is purifying salty water into freshwater using reverse osmosis has reignited hopes of water for thousands of residents in Magarini, Kilifi County.
The project funded by Helping Hand for Relief and Development has now enabled the community in Gongoni to drink fresh water for the first time since independence.
Wells in that region have always been producing salty water only, hence hindering the local community from accessing clean and fresh water to drink.
The project was officially handed over to the resident by regional director of the NGO Musa Ibrahim and Professor Mohamed Karama who is also a board member.
Prof Karama said the water was treated using reverse osmosis which are clean and has no minerals that could have negative effects on consumers.
“This water is good for drinking but there has to be an alternative source of water for washing clothes and other households’ chores to prevent the plant from overworking which would reduce the lifeline of the membranes,’’ he said.
He said the current membranes can last up to three months if well utilized but if it is overused it could last only for a week or two.
Mr Ibrahim said they were happy to open the water purification plant that will go along way in enabling the community to get freshwater for drinking.
“We came in this area a few months ago and found out that locals were drinking salty water and after consultations with the area leaders it was agreed that we should come up with the project,” said Mr Ibrahim.
The regional director said they were sponsored by a group of donors from USA who do not know Ngomeni or even Kilifi county but were touched by the plight of the community who had no fresh water to drink.
Among those present during the launch were Gongoni MCA Albert Kiraga, and Magarini Sub County administrator Richard Lwambi.
Elated locals said the project will breathe a lifeline in terms of water in that area.
One of the residents, Ustadh Kasim Mbwana said they were very happy for getting the water purification project after suffering for decades since independence drinking salty water.
“We thank the donors for coming up with this project, a history has been made today because Ngomeni residents for many years have been suffering to get fresh water, this organization has brought blessing,’’ he said.
The MCA on his part thanked the donors for funding the project that came up with the water purification plant.
He said the community needs to sustain the project so that it can last for years and benefit the locals in getting clean water.
“As a county government, we always pray to get donors funds and partners because the budget of the county is not enough, and there are challenges of water accessibility,’’ he said.
Kiraga said the county spends a lot of money on electricity in their wells to supply water in Magarini which was very expensive and urged the authorities to begin thinking of embracing solar energy to cut costs and reach out to many residents.
