Bungoma Boosts Access to Safe and Clean Water with Two Water Treatment Plants

Bungoma County is set to improve access to safe and clean water through a partnership with the South Korean government, which funded two water treatment plants: Phase 1 at Terem and Phase 2 at Kubura in Mt. Elgon. Currently, only 25% of residents have access to clean water, below the national average of 57%, but county officials aim to meet or surpass this benchmark.
Deputy Governor Jennipher Mbatiany said over 250,000 residents across Mt. Elgon, Tongaren, Kimilili, and Webuye will benefit from the projects. She emphasized that access to clean water is a fundamental human right and that the projects have improved health, sanitation, and overall quality of life for the community. The first phase alone has served 60,000 people and was commissioned by then Deputy President William Ruto.
County Water Executive Hebert Kibunguch noted that deforestation of Mt. Elgon forest, the main water source, has lowered the water table, making conservation critical. He added that the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has started preliminary surveys for Phase 3, which will cost Sh1.2 billion, provide 12,000 cubic meters of water, and serve Tongaren and Webuye residents.
Local residents, including Elizabeth Serut, praised the initiative for reducing waterborne diseases, while forester Juma Dalu and Kaptama police Abdi Kiptoo urged the community to protect the forest and support the projects. Once completed, the initiative is expected to boost the economy, public health, and overall development in Bungoma County.