Kericho Governor Dr Eric Mutai has said the ongoing Sh95 million Bureti Water Supply Project will significantly improve access to clean and reliable water for more than 2,000 households in Bureti Sub-County.

Dr Mutai said the project, which covers the Kapsuser, Cheromit, Kabartegan and Roret corridor, was progressing well, with nearly 20 kilometres of pipeline already completed and construction of the 100,000-litre Kabartegan water reservoir reaching 50 per cent completion.

The project, which is expected to be completed by May 2027, will also benefit nine schools and three health facilities across parts of Seretut, Chaik, Chemosot and Kisiara wards.

Dr. Mutai said the project entails the construction of five large water storage tanks and the installation of more than 45 kilometres of transmission and distribution pipelines to enhance water supply and improve access to clean water in the beneficiary communities.

The project is being financed under the Strategic Intervention Programme through the Department of Finance and Economic Planning.

The water will be sourced from the Sh1.2 billion Kimugu Water Project, which produces more than 14 million litres of water daily, with surplus production providing an opportunity to extend supply to previously underserved areas.

The Governor said the expansion of water infrastructure was aimed at easing pressure on existing supply systems and ensuring residents have access to adequate and safe water for domestic use, sanitation and other essential needs.

Bureti Sub-County has for years experienced water supply challenges, with some residents relying on springs, rivers and other alternative sources to meet their daily needs.

The shortages have affected households, schools, health facilities and businesses, particularly in areas where existing water infrastructure has been inadequate to meet growing demand.

Kapkatet town and its surrounding areas have also experienced water supply challenges, partly attributed to the growing population, increased commercial activities and limitations in existing distribution networks.

The water shortages have forced some residents to travel long distances in search of clean water, while others depend on alternative sources whose reliability and quality may be uncertain.

The situation has also increased the burden on households and institutions that require consistent water supply for sanitation, cooking and other essential activities.

Dr. Mutai said the Bureti Water Supply Project was part of broader efforts to expand water infrastructure and address longstanding water shortages in the county, as demand continues to grow alongside residential and commercial development.

The Kimugu Water Project has enhanced water availability in parts of Kericho County, and the Bureti project is expected to extend the benefits of improved water infrastructure to more communities that have not had consistent access to piped water.

Reliable water supply is also expected to support agricultural activities, improve sanitation in learning institutions and health facilities, reduce the time spent by residents fetching water and stimulate economic activities in the beneficiary areas.

Upon completion, the five storage tanks and more than 45 kilometres of pipelines are expected to strengthen water distribution and provide a more dependable supply to the targeted households and institutions.

The project is expected to improve living standards, promote public health and support socio-economic development across the beneficiary communities.

By Kipngeno Korir