PS Harsama Kello Lauds Mwania Maongoa Sand Dam as a Model for Drought Resilience in ASALs
0
0
By John Kariuki
The Principal Secretary for Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) and Regional Development, Harsama Kello, has hailed the Mwania Maongoa Sand Dam project in Waita Ward, Mwingi Central, Kitui County, describing it as a replicable model of resilience and innovation in tackling drought across arid regions.
During an inspection tour, the PS—accompanied by National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) CEO Hared Hassan—visited the flagship project implemented by NDMA with funding from the European Union. He noted that the initiative showcases the power of innovation, partnerships, and community involvement in transforming livelihoods in ASALs.
The sand dam integrates cutting-edge water storage technology with renewable energy. It features a four-metre diameter sump well fitted with a solar-powered pumping system, which supplies water through a 10.87-kilometre pipeline. This network now delivers clean water to households, four schools, a health facility, four churches, three community kiosks, and hundreds of livestock—directly benefiting thousands of residents.
Supporting infrastructure includes a 100,000-litre masonry storage tank secured by a perimeter fence, a 4.87-kilometre rising main, and a six-kilometre distribution line. The project was jointly delivered by NDMA, the County Government of Kitui, and the local community, which contributed land, labour, and materials.
Beyond its technical features, the project has brought profound social transformation. For decades, residents trekked up to eight kilometres to fetch water from seasonal rivers. Today, women and children—traditionally burdened with this task—spend far less time collecting water, freeing up hours for education, household care, and small-scale income-generating activities.
PS Kello applauded the collaboration that made the project a success, noting the County Government’s technical expertise and the strong role played by the community.
“This project is a powerful example of how we can harness resources in ASALs to build resilience, promote food security, and enhance livelihoods,” he remarked.
The Mwania Maongoa Sand Dam now stands as a practical demonstration of the Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), linking clean energy, water security, and long-term drought mitigation in one integrated solution.
About The Author
