WATER PROJECTS HANDED OVER TO COUNTY GOVERNMENT FOR MANAGEMENT

The County Government of Kakamega has assumed ownership of eight water projects across Kakamega county from the Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency (LVNWWDA) after completion of construction works by the latter.

The transfer to the county agencies; the Kakamega Water and Sanitation Company (KACWASCO) and Kakamega Rural Water and Sanitation Company (KACRUWASCO) signifies a change in management for the projects in line with the requirements of the Water Act, 2016 which requires a formal transfer instrument upon completion of water projects from national government agencies to devolved units.

County Secretary and Head of Public Service Dr Lawrence Omuhaka witnessed the exercise and emphasized that it aligns with Governor Fernandes Barasa’s water and sanitation agenda across the county. He reaffirmed the governor’s committment to ensuring every household has access to clean, reliable and sustainable water.

The handover agreement was formally signed by LVNWWDA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Joel Wamalwa and the County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change Ms. Peninah Mukabane.

The signing exercise was succeeded by inspection of some of the ongoing works at several projects handed over including Ileho, Sabane, Mukumu and Mukhalanya water projects

County officials expressed optimism that the transition will enhance operational efficiency, strengthen service delivery and accelerate progress towards achieving universal access to clean and safe water for all residents of Kakamega County.

Present were County Attorney Vivian Mmbaka and Chief Officer Ms Mariam Were as well as officials from the two county agencies.