Over 3,000 residents of Mutiume, Kihingo, and surrounding areas in Kihingo Ward, Njoro Sub-county, will now benefit from improved access to clean and safe water following the successful solarization of the Mutiume Water Project.

The County Government of Nakuru, through the Department of Water and Sanitation, completed the project as part of ongoing efforts to improve water infrastructure across the county. The use of solar technology in the project is expected to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency in water delivery to the residents.

Chief Officer for Water and Sanitation, Eng. Margaret Kinyanjui, who spoke during the commissioning of the project, noted that the use of solar energy would reduce dependence on electricity and fuel-powered systems, thereby lowering maintenance expenses and making the project more sustainable over the long term.

“By utilizing solar energy, residents will benefit from reduced operational and maintenance costs. With proper management, the cost-effective project will ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply for the community,” said Eng. Kinyanjui.

The water project is part of broader efforts by the Nakuru County Government under the leadership of H.E. Governor Susan Kihika to improve access to water in rural and underserved areas. Residents in Kihingo Ward have long experienced water shortages, which affected households, schools, and local businesses. The project now offers a consistent and accessible source of water for domestic use and other needs.

Community members expressed appreciation for the investment, noting that the project will reduce the time and distance residents, particularly women and children, spend fetching water from distant sources. Local leaders urged the community to take an active role in maintaining the infrastructure and to form strong management committees to oversee its operations.

The Department of Water and Sanitation has stated that it will continue to assess similar opportunities to use renewable energy in water provision projects across other wards in the county. It emphasized the importance of community involvement in ensuring the sustainability and long-term functionality of such initiatives.

The solarization of the Mutiume Water Project marks an important milestone in the county’s efforts to address water scarcity and improve service delivery in Njoro Sub-county.