This archive report was first published on 6 October 2021.
Published on October 6, 2021, Makueni County residents are set to benefit from a Sh264 million constructed sand dams and cold rooms project funded by the World Bank in partnership with the Makueni County Government through the Kenya Devolution Support Programme.
Makueni County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water and Sanitation Rosemary Maundu noted that eight dams, each with a capacity of 255 cubic meters, have been completed.
The dams are estimated to serve more than 19,200 people across the county with clean water for domestic use as well as for farming, Maundu said.
"My department has completed the construction of the sand dams within the time limits and they are ready for use," Maundu added.
The CECM further added that each dam project has been equipped with solar energy to pump water to storage tanks from which water will flow to farms by gravity, and water kiosks to serve the residents.
"The project will have an impact on the local economy through improved irrigation agriculture with produce being sold at local, regional and international markets," emphasized Maundu.
At the same time, Makueni County public participation and civic education director Zipporah Wambua said three cold rooms are set to be constructed in Kalawani, Kavotho, and Kalongo to alleviate post-harvest produce loss of agricultural products.
The cold rooms will be completed before the end of the year, Wambua said.
"The projects are aimed at realization of food security, increase in agricultural productivity, value addition and commercialisation and access to water," Wambua added.
