Access to clean and reliable water has become a daily reality for more than 1,200 households in Solai Ward, Rongai Sub-County, following the completion of the Arutani Borehole Water Project. The project marks a clear step in the County Government of Nakuru’s efforts to expand water access in rural areas and demonstrates how H.E. Governor Susan Kihika continues to deliver on her manifesto commitment to improve water services and support community livelihoods.
The Arutani Borehole Water Project was funded under the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme and implemented to address long-standing water shortages in Solai Ward. For many years, residents depended on seasonal rivers or purchased water at high prices from vendors. These challenges affected household welfare, sanitation, and time spent on productive activities. With the project now operational, families have access to a stable water supply closer to their homes.
The project involved several key components designed to ensure reliable and sustainable water delivery. These included the installation of a water pump at the Arutani Borehole, solarization of the system to support consistent operation, and the construction of a water storage tank to ensure availability during peak demand. Security lights and fencing were also installed to protect the facility and support continuous service delivery.
In addition, a 4-kilometre pipeline was laid from the Arutani Borehole to Barafu area and its surrounding villages. The pipeline now distributes water to households that previously lacked access to piped water. Through this infrastructure, residents are able to collect water for domestic use, including drinking, cooking, and sanitation, without travelling long distances.
The availability of clean water has reduced household spending on purchased water, allowing families to redirect resources to other needs such as food, education, and health care. Improved access has also reduced the time spent fetching water, particularly for women and children, supporting better attendance in schools and increased participation in income-generating activities.
The project contributes to improved public health outcomes by reducing reliance on unsafe water sources. Access to clean water supports better hygiene practices and helps lower the risk of water-related illnesses. For households in Solai Ward, this translates into reduced health-related expenses and improved overall well-being.
The Arutani Borehole Water Project aligns with H.E. Governor Susan Kihika’s manifesto, which identifies access to clean water as a key priority for social and economic development. Under her leadership, the County Government of Nakuru has continued to invest in water infrastructure across the county, with a focus on underserved and rural communities. The Solai project reflects this commitment by addressing a critical need identified by the community.
The use of solar-powered systems under the FLLoCA programme also supports climate-responsive development. Solarization reduces operational costs and supports sustainable water supply while minimising environmental impact. This approach strengthens the county’s efforts to build resilience against climate-related challenges such as droughts and water scarcity.
Beyond household use, the improved water supply supports small-scale farming and livestock keeping in the area. Access to water enables residents to maintain kitchen gardens and care for animals, contributing to food security and household income. These benefits support local livelihoods and strengthen the rural economy.
The completion of the Arutani Borehole Water Project demonstrates the impact of locally led development initiatives supported by county and national frameworks. By working through the FLLoCA programme, the County Government of Nakuru continues to empower communities to access essential services while addressing climate-related risks.
As more households in Solai Ward benefit from the new water infrastructure, the project stands as an example of how targeted investments in water access can improve living conditions, support health and livelihoods, and advance the county’s development agenda. Through such initiatives, Governor Susan Kihika’s administration continues to translate policy commitments into practical outcomes for residents across Nakuru County.