Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Mr. Kello Harsama, CBS has officially commissioned the Masalani Water Project. This transformative project promises clean and affordable water to over 12,500 residents in Garissa County. The project, implemented by the National Drought Management Authority in partnership with the Garissa County Government, marks a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen drought resilience in the region.
Targeting the underserved communities of Bulla Sarman, Qalanqal, Saudi Masalani, and Dahir villages, the project also benefits more than 600 learners in local primary schools and madrassas. It is a direct response to the community’s top priority, as identified through a participatory drought risk assessment.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, PS Harsama, described the initiative as a timely and community-driven intervention.
“Despite being close to River Tana, many households in these villages have long suffered from limited access to water. This project shows the power of listening and responding to community needs,” said Mr. Harsama during the commissioning ceremony.
He was joined by Garissa Deputy Governor Hon. Abdi Dagane, NDMA Board Chair Mr. Shallow Yahya, Board Director Mr. Gilbert Tenai, CEO Lt Col (Rtd) Hared Adan, MBS. Ijara MP Hon. Abdi Ali, and other senior officials.
Infrastructure That Transforms
With a total investment of KSh 20.3 million from the National Drought Emergency Fund (NDEF), the project delivers vital infrastructure to address long-standing water challenges in the region:
- 4.4 km high-density polyethylene pipeline to improve distribution
- 120,000-litre elevated steel water tank for reliable storage and pressure
- Water kiosk for community access
- Capacity building for the Water Users Association to promote local ownership and sustainability
Masalani’s recent elevation to municipal status in 2023 brought a surge in population, placing immense pressure on limited water systems. For years, residents have walked long distances, paid high prices to informal vendors, and faced health and sanitation risks—particularly impacting women and children.
From left to right: NDMA Board Chairman Mr. Shallow Abdullahi Yahya, PS ASALs Mr. Harsama Kello, Garissa Deputy Governor Hon. Abdi Dagane and CEO Lt Col. (Rtd) Hared Hassan Adan, at a communal water point in Masalani.
“This is about more than infrastructure. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and resilience,” said NDMA Board Chair Mr. Shallow Yahya. “Children can stay in school, and mothers can focus on their families and livelihoods, not long treks for water.”
NDMA CEO Lt Col (Rtd) Hared Adan emphasised that sustainability begins with the community.
“This project is a direct result of the people’s voice. We urge the Water Users Association and the wider community to take full ownership as the future of this infrastructure lies in their hands,” he said.
The Masalani Water Project is part of NDMA’s broader drought resilience strategy. Over the past two years, the Authority has rolled out 47 drought resilience projects across 25 counties, investing more than KSh 622 million in sustainable solutions that reduce vulnerability in Kenya’s ASAL regions.
As taps begin to flow in Masalani, the project stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and what is possible when communities and government work together to address development challenges.