Sh2.5 billion has been injected by the national government to fund several water projects in Maragua constituency, Muranga County.
Water Principal Secretary Mr Joseph Wairagu announced the report and said the projects are aimed at alleviating water crisis and support irrigation farming in the constituency which receives minimal rainfall. Maragua is part of Murang’a County which experiences prolonged dry spell affecting farming thus subjecting a section of local residents to rely on relief food.
The projects ranging from construction of a dam, sewerage line, digging of boreholes and connection of piped water to homesteads are at different levels of completion. However, by mid next year, all the projects will be completed giving reprieve to locals who have been struggling to get clean water for domestic use.
Proper management of the waste
The PS who was speaking as he commissioned drilling of boreholes at two different schools said once the construction of Maragua dam is complete, they will get plenty of water to boost irrigation farming.
“The dam which is already under construction will draw water from rivers Irati and Maragua and will ensure storage of water to support irrigation as well as provide water for domestic use,” he said, adding that the ministry is also in the process of digging 15 boreholes at different parts of the constituency.
Apart from the dam, the PS noted that they are also installing sewerage lines at Kenol town and its environs to improve sanitation in the area. Construction of the sewer line has already started and will help the fast-growing town to have proper management of the waste. They will be managed by Murang’a South Water and Sanitation Company (MUSWASCO) to avoid petty fights on running them.
“Water coverage in Maragua constituency is currently at 35% but with the digging of the boreholes, water service providers will be able to serve a larger population in the area,” said the area MP Mary Waithera.
