Residents of Chepsir village in Kipkelion East Constituency staged a peaceful demonstration on Monday.

Protesting the prolonged delay of a Ksh 40 million water project intended to alleviate the community’s persistent water shortage.

The project, initiated in 2019 and funded by the World Bank in partnership with the Kericho County Government, was expected to provide clean and reliable water to thousands of households.

However, five years later, little progress has been made, leaving residents frustrated and questioning the transparency of the funds allocated for the project.

Carrying placards with messages such as “Water is Life, Where is Our Water?” and chanting peaceful slogans, the demonstrators accused county office, demanding answers.

“This project is sitting on office, yet you have not taken any action to survey its progress.

We demand accountability and transparency regarding the funds allocated for this initiative,” said one of the demonstrators.

The residents accused both past and present county administrations of neglecting their responsibility to ensure the project’s completion.

They called on Governor Dr. Erick Mutai to personally visit the site and provide an explanation.

Speaking during the protest, a community members urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to launch an immediate investigation into the stalled project.

“We cannot continue suffering while millions of shillings meant for our water supply remain unaccounted for. We demand justice and access to clean water, as was promised,” said the representative.

The Chepsir water project was envisioned as a long-term solution to the water scarcity affecting the region.

The delay has forced residents to rely on unsafe and contaminated water sources, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.