The World Vision Hong Kong NGO through World Vision Kenya has donated 150 water tanks of 10,000 litres to schools in West Pokot and constructed 12 permanent rainwater harvester structures with capacities of 50,000 litres worth Kshs 20 million in dry areas of the County. The project is set to boost accessibility to water in the water scarce areas hit by drought.
Some of the beneficiary schools in North Pokot Sub County include Tamarukwo, Merur, Rukei, Tunoyo, Choril, Koitobok, Emposut, Kapkata, Chemwapit, Wurar, Kesot Sinjo, Chemororoch primary and secondary, Ketiam, Momoro, Wonyoi and Akiriamet, Lokarkar and Simbol primary schools in Central Pokot.
West Pokot World vision Manager Mr. Titus Kaprom cited that the water tanks given to schools will cost Kshs 10.5 million and the remaining amount will cater for other water and sanitation interventions. He said schools with the highest number of students will benefit.
He said the resources will improve lives of residents, especially children. He further said the organization will roll out training programs for water user committees on water system operations, maintenance and management.
Mr. Kaprom cited that the organization will establish health clubs to improve hygiene and behaviour change practices to prevent the spread of diseases in the area.
“We want to improve sanitation in schools. 65 schools in West Pokot Sub County will benefit,” he said. He said the organization will improve and increase the capacity of boreholes in the area. He cited that the organization will lay pipeline extensions covering 6 kilometres to enhance water access.
West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo who received and flagged off the water tanks in Kapenguria and Marich Pass said the tanks will help address the water challenges in the area.
The Governor urged the national government to collaborate with the County government and NGOs to fund projects in the area, and shun undertaking projects that are already set up. “They should inform us so that we don’t undertake the projects already done,” he said.