Bungoma County, in partnership with the Republic of Korea, has officially commissioned the Sh600 million KOICA II water project, a transformative initiative set to benefit over 100,000 residents across Mt Elgon, Kabuchai, and Kanduyi subcounties. The launch event, held on May 9, 2024, brought together South Korean Ambassador to Kenya Yeo Sung-Jun, Governor Kenneth Lusaka, and local county officials, marking a milestone in the county’s efforts to ensure reliable access to clean and safe water. The project is designed to address historical water shortages caused by deforestation in Mt Elgon and aims to improve sanitation, public health, and economic activities in the region.
The Chepyuk-Kibabii water complex, part of the KOICA II initiative, has been under construction since May 2021 and is now 62% complete. The project has introduced modern infrastructure to replace the traditional open-air water sources, providing residents with a secure and hygienic supply. Key components under development include an ablution block, septic tank, soak pit, playground, and reinforced structural features such as ring beams and tank slabs. During the ceremony, Ambassador Sung-Jun also announced plans for KOICA III, which will extend water access to Mt Elgon, Kimilili, Tongaren, Webuye East, and Webuye West subcounties, with a projected budget of Sh1.8 billion.
Residents and officials have lauded the project as a game-changer for the county. Governor Lusaka emphasized that KOICA II not only improves water accessibility but also stimulates economic growth and enhances livelihoods by enabling communities to engage in productive activities. He noted that the project complements KOICA I, with cumulative water provision expected to significantly impact the county. County Executive Hebert Kibunguchy highlighted that Bungoma’s clean water coverage has risen from 25% to 36%, with hopes that KOICA III will bring the county closer to 100% access. Stakeholders anticipate that the expanded water supply will foster sustainable development, improve health outcomes, and empower communities across Bungoma for years to come.