Residents of North Ugenya in Siaya County have reason to smile as former KDF soldiers, under the umbrella Veterans for Peace, drilled boreholes to address the water shortage in the area.

Executive Director Nelson Sechere stated that the region is prone to waterborne diseases due to unsafe water, and this initiative will help eradicate such diseases. “A feasibility study conducted in Siaya County shows that the area faces an acute water shortage, an this program will help curb that,” said Sechere.

Sechere also mentioned that the veterans are committed to digging more than 300 boreholes across the country, with Mombasa, Makueni, Narok, and Kisii being top priorities.

Siaya County Executive Committee Member (CEC) for Water, Prof. Jaqueline Oduol, lauded the initiative, emphasizing the need for integrated programs to ensure residents have access to water.

“Water and sanitation programs are a top priority in Siaya County. Residents are suffering, with many forced to walk long distances in search of this precious commodity,” Prof. Oduol said.

Health CEC Rtd (Col) Dr. Martin Odhiambo K’onyango added that the county will collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure sufficient water supply for all.

The newly drilled borehole produces 8,000 cubic liters of water per day, capable of serving 2,000 people daily.

Ugenya North MCA also attended the event and recommended that all water projects should include purification processes to make the water safe for human consumption, livestock, and organic gardening.

In 2022, Siaya County experienced an acute water shortage, forcing residents to walk several kilometers in search of water. The problem persists in some parts of Siaya, with residents still relying on ponds and rivers for water.