Japanese NGO boss inspects Sh2.2 billion water project

Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) Director General has visited Embu to assess the progress of a Sh2.2 billion water project funded by the organisation.

Mr Kunihilo Yamauchu led a team of JICA officials in inspecting the project at Mwiria, which has been expanded to improve water intake. He also toured the water treatment plant at Mukangu in Manyatta sub-county.

Once completed the project, which started six years ago, will benefit over 200,000 residents.

Residents of the semi-arid Mbeere will be the biggest beneficiaries of the project.

The JICA grant is channelled through Embu Water and Sanitation Company, a semi-autonomous entity under the county government.

Governor Martin Wambora said the project, one of the biggest in the region, will boost provision of clean drinking water to the residents.

REQUEST FOR FUNDS

Mr Wambora said the project, mainly focused on the Mbeere, will be rolled out gradually to other sub-counties.

“My government will present a proposal to JICA to request for funds to construct water treatment plants in other sub-counties and a sewerage plant in Siakago and Runyenjes town,” he said.

Mr Yamauchu pledged that Japan will continue partnering with the county and the country at large in different projects to improve the lives of Kenyans.

Further, he said the recent Tokyo International Conference of Africa’s Development conference has strengthened the relationship between Kenya and Japan.

Embu Water Executive Member Josphat Kithumbu revealed that the county government will draft a bill aimed at streamlining the water sector.

He said lack of clear guidelines have seen miraa farmers wrongly using drinking water to irrigate the plants.