Nyamira County and Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency are partnering in solarising the water supply infrastructure, Governor Amos Nyaribo has said.
The County CEO reaffirmed vitalising the Nyamira Water Supply Project, as preparations intensify for the anticipated commissioning during an upcoming presidential visit.
Speaking during a consultative meeting held at the Water Boardroom, Governor Nyaribo emphasized the urgent need to make the water utility sustainable through strategic investments, particularly in solar energy.
"For a water company to operate effectively, we must address the cost of power. Electricity is expensive, and that is why we are focusing on solarization of our water pumps."
— Governor Amos Kimwomi Nyaribo
He noted that the County is working closely with the Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency (LVSWWDA) to ensure the project starts immediately, adding that plans are underway to establish a sewerage system in Nyamira Town, with feasibility studies expected to guide its implementation.
Outstanding Bills Settlement
Governor Nyaribo further revealed that the County Government has begun settling outstanding bills owed by NYAWASCO, including an initial payment of approximately KSh 20 million.
He also added that a technical team led by a Managing Director will soon be recruited to strengthen the utility's operations and ensure long-term sustainability.
The Governor also confirmed that the County will provide adequate land for the solarization project, which is expected to commence immediately once final cost estimates—projected at between KSh 300 million and KSh 400 million—are confirmed.
LVSWWDA CEO Statement
LVSWWDA Chief Executive Officer, Jackine Kemunto Momanyi noted that although the Nyamira water Supply System was completed several years ago, it has never been officially commissioned.
"We are here to assess the current state of the utility and prepare it for commissioning, especially ahead of the President's visit," she said.
KSh 169 Million Tender Awarded
Momanyi disclosed that the agency has already awarded a KSh 169 million tender for rehabilitation and last-mile connectivity, aimed at improving water access across Nyamira Town. The works will include addressing siltation challenges and repairing non-functional pumps.
She highlighted high electricity costs and frequent power outages as major challenges affecting water supply, noting that solarization will significantly reduce operational expenses and ensure a reliable water supply.
Solarization Funding
An initial allocation of KSh 150 million is expected to start off the solarization.
Sewerage System Development
Additionally, Momanyi pointed out that Nyamira remains one of the few counties without a sewerage system, revealing that proposals have already been submitted to potential financiers and it will be finalized once funding is accessed.
The meeting also focused on enhancing collaboration between LVSWWDA, the County Government, and NYAWASCO to improve service delivery.
Expected Impact
Once completed, the combined efforts in rehabilitation, solarization, and last-mile connectivity are expected to transform water service delivery in Nyamira County and ensure a sustainable supply for residents.
Attended by:
County Officials:
- • Dr. Jack Magara (County Secretary)
- • Alice Manoti (CECM Water)
- • Stephen Oboso (CECM Finance)
- • Erastus Orina (County Attorney)
- • Richard Onyinkwa (Chief Officer - Water)
- • Josphat Gori (Chief Officer - Lands)
NYAWASCO & Others:
- • Eng. Dr. Lugard Ogaro (NYAWASCO Board Chair)
- • NYAWASCO Board Members
- • LVSWWDA Representatives
- • Other County Officials
Key Takeaways:
Solarization Project
KSh 150M initial allocation for solar energy
Bills Settlement
KSh 20M initial payment to clear outstanding bills
Last-Mile Connectivity
KSh 169M tender for rehabilitation and connections
Sewerage System
Plans underway for Nyamira Town sewerage system