More than 40,000 residents of Utawala-Githunguri are set to benefit from improved access to clean and reliable water following the completion of the Utawala Last-Mile Water Connectivity Project.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting held at Little Angels Grounds in Utawala, residents, led by Muthwani Residents Association Chairperson Denis Oyunge, called for the speedy completion of the project, saying the area has endured years of inadequate water supply.
Machakos County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Onesmus Muia Kuyu, urged the National Government to intervene and address the growing water crisis affecting counties bordering Nairobi. He noted that rapid population growth has outpaced existing water infrastructure, making it necessary to review and expand water supply to neighbouring counties.
Kuyu acknowledged the persistent water shortages in areas surrounding Nairobi and emphasized the need for joint efforts between the national and county governments to ensure sustainable water provision.
Residents attending the meeting appealed for closer collaboration between the two levels of government, noting that many households currently receive piped water only twice a week.
Mavoko Water and Sewerage Company (MAVWASCO) Managing Director Raphael Mutie admitted that the project had experienced delays in previous years due to inadequate funding and limited resources, which slowed its implementation.
Once completed, the project is expected to provide reliable water supply to 191 estate courts across Utawala and the greater Githunguri area, benefiting more than 40,000 residents from August and significantly easing the long-standing water shortage in the region.
