The Government of Kenya, in partnership with the Kabati community and the County Government of Nyeri, has commissioned the Kabati Water Project in Murichu Sub‑location, Kieni East Sub‑county. This initiative will deliver safe, reliable water to over 350 households, four schools and a health facility in the drought‑prone Naromoru/Kiamathaga Ward.
The commissioning ceremony was officiated by the Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Mr Kello Harsama, CBS, and attended by Hon. Kinariri Waroe, Nyeri Deputy Governor, government and county officials and the local residents.
“This project is more than the infrastructure we see today. It is a symbol of what is possible when communities and the two levels of Government unite around a shared vision to improve lives and build long‑term resilience,” said PS Harsama. “It reflects the Bottom‑Up Economic Transformation Agenda in action and the Government’s commitment to community‑driven development.”
The Kabati community financed the hydrogeological survey and drilling of a 220 m borehole which confirmed a high‑yield water source. NDMA contributed KSh 17.3 million from the National Drought Emergency Fund to:
- Borehole equipping and installation of a solar‑powered pumping system
- Construct a 225,000 litre concrete storage tank
- Lay 2.9 km of distribution pipeline
The County Government of Nyeri provided technical oversight and continues to support associated livelihood initiatives. With each partner contributing significantly to its success, it was completed at a total cost of KSh 21.2 million.
From right to left: NDMA Board Chairman Mr. Shallow Abdullahi Yahya, CEO Lt Col. (Rtd) Hared Hassan Adan, PS ASALs Mr. Harsama Kello and Nyeri Deputy Governor Hon. Kinariri Waroe, at a communal water point at Naromoru/Kiamathaga Ward.
“The Kabati Water Project demonstrates the power of shared responsibility,” said Mr Shallow Yahya, NDMA Board Chairman. “This is a high‑impact solution that delivers clean water, boosts food security, and promotes the use of renewable energy.”
Before this initiative, residents trekked up to five kilometres daily to fetch water, and institutions depended on expensive, ad hoc water‑trucking. The project has drastically reduced time taken to water points especially for women and children freeing up time for school, work and other household activities. Moreover, the dependable supply underpins small‑scale irrigation schemes, improving household nutrition and food security across the ward.
“Water is not just a basic need; it’s the trigger for food security and dignified livelihoods,” said NDMA CEO, Lt Col (Rtd) Hared Adan. “What I’ve seen here affirms that water access is the key stimulus for development in ASAL regions. The Kabati community’s ownership and sustainability mechanisms make this a model for future investments.”
Kieni East lies on the leeward side of Mt Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges, enduring harsh climatic extremes including drought and frost despite proximity to major water towers. By integrating water resource development with livelihood diversification, the Kabati Water Project contributes to the Government’s broader agenda of strengthening drought resilience in Arid and Semi‑Arid Lands.
This milestone complements NDMA’s ongoing investments in Nyeri County past, current and planned water‑related interventions and underscores the critical role of community‑led, climate‑smart solutions in safeguarding development gains amid increasing climate variability.