At least 2,300 households in Masalani Town have every reason to smile after the government commissioned the over Sh20 million Masalani water project, aimed at ending acute scarcity of the precious commodity in the area.
Despite its proximity to River Tana, which is approximately 4.5 kilometres, Masalani town has experienced perennial water shortages especially due to lack of water intake pumping machines and treatment plants, thus forcing residents to rely on water trucks and use of untreated water.
The project, implemented by the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) at a cost of Sh20.3 million from the National Drought Emergency Fund NDEF includes the construction of a 4.4-kilometre pipeline, installation of a 120,000-litre elevated steel water tank, and the establishment of a water kiosk.
This initiative will benefit residents in Sarman, Qalanqal, and Bulla Saudi villages, as well as 600 learners in nearby schools and madrassas, hence easing the burden on women and children, improve household health and support better school attendance, while at the same time strengthening local institutions.
