Written by Joyce Nzomo
Makueni County residents have every reason to celebrate after Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr officially commissioned the Yumbuni Borehole Water Project in Nguu/Masumba Ward, Nzaui Sub-County.
The project, funded by Charity Water and implemented by Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH) over the past year, is set to transform lives by providing clean and reliable water to 8,889 households.
Speaking during the commissioning, Governor Mutula praised WHH for introducing innovative concepts that have strengthened water governance. He noted that with the new system, residents now receive water that matches the exact amount of money paid for, eliminating previous losses.
“It is significant because they have introduced concepts, we have been struggling with in water governance. Now, people get the exact amount of water they pay for, and there are no losses,” said Mutula.
The governor further explained that the system’s cashless platform ensures accountability, addressing the long-standing challenge of non-revenue water, which previously led to a 30% loss.
He added that this model also guarantees sustainability, as local committees can now handle repairs, while the county will step in for major maintenance.
WHH Country Director Christian Schniepper emphasized the importance of the project, noting that seven kiosks have been strategically placed along the pipeline to serve the
community.
“We are happy that the community has accessed water, which is an important economic opportunity for them and also good for their health,” said Schniepper.
Since August 2022, the collaboration between Makueni County and WHH has successfully completed 14 water projects, with two more expected by July 2026.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, Kikumbulyu South MCA Daniel Musau, County Executive for Water Eng. John Kieti, Devolution Executive Nicholas Nzioka, and Assembly Minority Leader Jades Kalunda, among other leaders.
