Joshua (Odhiambo) Oduor 
Vihiga County, Kenya – 18th September 2024 – Vihiga County Governor, Dr. Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo, officially commissioned the Mudungu and Igogwa water projects in Wodanga and Central Maragoli wards, bringing clean and safe water access to more than 168 households. These projects are part of the Climate Change Resilience Investment (CCRI) initiatives under the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program, aimed at building the community’s resilience to prolonged dry seasons.
The solar-powered water projects involve borehole drilling, installation of storage tanks, and extensive distribution networks to ensure a reliable water supply. At Mudungu, the project includes a borehole at Mudungu Primary School, an elevated storage tank, solar pumping systems, distribution mains, and three water kiosks. Meanwhile, the Igogwa project focuses on fencing intake works, constructing a water treatment chamber, and installing a 50-cubic meter steel tank at Kidundu, alongside a 1.2-kilometer rising main and distribution lines.
During the commissioning event, Governor Ottichilo urged residents to protect and take ownership of the projects, condemning instances of vandalism.
“We have to ensure these projects remain functional,” he emphasized. Dr. Ottichilo also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to provide clean water access to all Vihiga households by 2028, as detailed in the Vihiga County Climate Change Action Plan (2022-2027), where water provision is prioritized at 70%.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Environment, Water, Energy, and Natural Resources, Onzere Mulongo, highlighted the importance of environmental conservation to maintain water sources.
“Residents should plant bamboo trees along riverbanks instead of eucalyptus,” advised Mulongo.
He noted that bamboo is less water-intensive and helps protect catchment areas, urging those with eucalyptus trees in riparian zones to replace them with more eco-friendly species.The projects also utilize solar energy to minimize operational costs, thereby ensuring long-term sustainability.
“These solar-powered projects will make water access more reliable, especially during the dry seasons,” added Governor Ottichilo, highlighting the program’s focus on resilience and efficiency.
The Mudungu and Igogwa water initiatives are crucial components of Vihiga County’s broader efforts to address climate change challenges and secure a sustainable future for its residents. By focusing on water access and environmental conservation, the county aims to serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar climate issues.
