Athi-Tungunî Water Project in Kibwezi, Makûeni County. Photo Andrew Mbuva 
By Andrew Mbuva
When the Athi-Tungunî Water Project was launched in 2019, many residents of Makindu, Kikumbulyu North, and Nguumo wards could hardly imagine the transformation it would bring. Today, the once-thirsty communities are experiencing a new chapter—where clean, safe water flows closer to home, replacing years of suffering, danger, and health risks.
According to Eng. John Kieti, ECM for Water, the project has already reached a critical milestone. “In the 2019–2020 financial year, the government completed the water intake, and in 2021–2022 we finalized a treatment plant with a capacity of 2,400 cubic meters. Today, all four water drawing kiosks are connected and tested, ready to serve the people,” he said after an inspection with the Project Management Committee and local opinion leaders.
The Ksh 68 million investment is set to benefit more than 15,000 households in Kathyaka, Makindu, and Syumile. Initially, funds were set aside for a borehole in Syumile, but after consultations, Ksh 4 million will now be redirected to construct a booster system to pump water to the areas most in need.
Eng. Kieti dismissed fears that the project would stall, assuring residents of the governor’s full commitment. “We cannot allow this to become a white elephant. This is Phase 3, and the government is already planning Phase 4 to extend supply to Kilema. Our vision is simple—ensure every household in these three wards has access to water.”
For many residents, the project has been nothing short of life-saving. Before clean water arrived, villagers had no choice but to draw water directly from the Athi River—dirty, unsafe, and infested with crocodiles and hippos.
“We are very grateful to the county government,” said Jane Musyoka, a resident. “Before this, we fetched contaminated water that gave us stomachaches. Worse, crocodile attacks were common. Now we drink clean water and feel safe.”
Her sentiments were echoed by Stephen Ngandi of Ngaikinî. “We wasted a lot of time walking long distances to the river, and it was dangerous. My cousin was attacked by a crocodile. With this project, those fears are gone. But we are requesting the government to solarize the project, because power blackouts and high electricity bills disrupt supply.”
Even as the project nears full completion, challenges remain. Cases of vandalism have been reported, threatening to undo the progress made. Eng. Kieti issued a stern warning: “Those caught vandalizing water projects will face the full force of the law. This infrastructure is for the people, and the community must rise to protect it as their own.”
Upon completion, the project will be handed over to Kimawassco for management and further distribution to surrounding areas.
The Athi-Tungunî Water Project is more than just pipes and kiosks—it is a lifeline. It has restored dignity, ended the daily risks of crocodile-infested rivers, and given families the peace of mind that clean, safe water brings. For the people of Makindu, Kikumbulyu North, and Nguumo, water is no longer a dream—it is reality flowing at their doorstep.
