lowereas
Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe today turned a decade-long dream into reality after officially commissioning the landmark River Athi–Kangukangu–Mutomo–Ikutha–Kanziko–Mathima Water Project at Mutomo town.
The ambitious initiative, valued at Kshs. 840 million, is one of the largest water investments ever undertaken in Kitui County, made possible through a co-funding partnership between the County Government of Kitui (51.45%) and World Vision Kenya (48.55%).
Originally conceptualized in 2014 during Dr. Malombe’s first term, the project had remained a vision for years. Today’s commissioning marked what the Governor described as “the realization of a promise and a turning point in Kitui’s journey toward universal access to safe water.”
The project features a 224-kilometre pipeline network, 13 storage tanks, and 52 water kiosks strategically distributed to ensure access for over 100,000 residents across Kitui South and parts of Kitui Rural. It will directly benefit towns, schools, and health facilities within Mutomo, Ikutha, Kanziko, Mathima, and their surrounding areas.
“My government is committed to ensuring that every household in Kitui has access to safe and clean water, with water points located within a maximum radius of 2 kilometres and a turnaround time of no more than 45 minutes,” Governor Malombe declared.
He emphasized that the project is not only a response to the constitutional right to water but also a contribution to Kenya Vision 2030, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and Kitui’s broader development agenda.
The Governor outlined complementary efforts already underway to bridge water gaps in other regions, including borehole drilling, sump wells, earth dams, and sand dams. He also pledged to extend similar large-scale water projects to Kitui East and other underserved areas.
While celebrating the achievement, Dr. Malombe issued a stern warning against vandalism, noting that cases of pipeline destruction had already been reported. He directed the County Water and Irrigation Minister to collaborate with KITWASCO and local administrators in Lower Yatta, Mutomo, and Ikutha to curb the vice.
The Governor lauded World Vision Kenya, county technical teams, and local communities for their patience and partnership throughout the journey. He assured residents that the project’s management by Kitui Water and Sanitation Company (KITWASCO) would guarantee sustainability and efficient service delivery.
“This project is more than pipes and tanks it is the heartbeat of transformation for our people. Clean water means healthier families, stronger schools, and thriving businesses. This is the legacy we must all protect,” Dr. Malombe affirmed.
With the Kangukangu water project now flowing, Kitui County has taken a decisive step closer to solving one of its most pressing challenges, marking the dawn of a new era in water access and rural development.
ENDS///…
