By Samuel Ouma
The County of Vihiga in Western Kenya has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with The Water Project, a U.S.-based NGO, to build sustainable water projects to bring clean, safe, and reliable water to the residents of Vihiga County.
“The signing of the MOU represents a continuation of the strong working relationship between Vihiga County Government and The Water Project, acknowledging our joint mission to provide water access to the communities of Vihiga, to ensure the long-term sustainability of WASH infrastructure, and to build and share knowledge among sector actors,” said Emma Kelly, Program Manager at The Water Project.
The organization, leading and working through local staff and network partners, including Western Water and Sanitation Forum (WEWASAFO) and Friends of Timothy Foundation (FOTF), partners with communities to monitor and maintain nearly 1,300 water projects implemented across the region.
It is working towards complete water and sanitation coverage in its service areas. The organization implements water and sanitation programs through borehole drilling, well rehabilitation, the protection of natural springs, rainwater harvesting, the provision of sanitation facilities, and hygiene promotion for vulnerable communities and institutions.
In 2022, the organization completed a mapping exercise identifying 16,021 public and private water points to understand the true scope of work needed to reach basic water coverage for all residents.
The organization is expected to publish the results of this work later in the year as the longer-term plans for the region come into focus.
“We’re excited and humbled to be able to continue and greatly deepen our commitment to the people of Western Kenya as we provide access to clean, safe and reliable water to those who today suffer needlessly without it,” said Peter Chasse, President & Founder of The Water Project.
The Water Project, a U.S.-based non-profit organization with regional headquarters in Kakamega, Kenya, unlocks human potential by providing reliable water projects to communities in sub-Saharan Africa.
