Taita Taveta residents thirsty in midst of plenty

Taita Taveta County has many natural water springs, yet most residents lack access to safe drinking water.

Despite having spectacular springs like Mzima and Njoro, the water benefits people outside the county, leaving the local community struggling with ongoing food and water shortages.

A report on the county's major water sources reveals severe siltation and illegal human activities. Some springs have been neglected and could dry up unless urgent measures are taken. It also calls for immediate action to stop illegal activities and environmental degradation.

In addition to Mzima and Njoro Springs, other water sources like Lake Jipe, Lake Challa, and Mwatate Dam could generate significant revenue through tourism, benefiting the local community.

The Taita Taveta County Assembly's Water and Irrigation Committee expressed concern over the persistent shortages, despite the county's abundant water resources.

The committee chair, Byson Mwambi, noted that only 40 per cent of the county's 300,000 residents have access to safe water.

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Mzima Springs produces 302,400 cubic meters of water daily, with 11.5 per cent sent to the coastal region. However, 88.5 per cent is non-revenue water, according to the committee’s report, which was endorsed by the county assembly during a session chaired by acting Speaker Anselim Mwadime.

The Mzima II water pipeline project, estimated to cost Sh70 billion, aims to supply water to residents in Taita Taveta, Kwale, and Mombasa.

“The county government in collaboration with the national government should fast-track the implementation of the phase 11 water project to supply areas of Taita Taveta that do not have adequate water,” stated the report.

According to the report, the Taita Taveta Water and Sewerage Company's 10-year plan is to make the county and the region water secure by 2032.