Residents of Siaya County in Ugunja, Sega, and Ukwala are finally enjoying what many have waited decades for, reliable, clean water right at their doorsteps.
The Ugunja-Sega-Ukwala Water Supply Project, a project funded at Ksh 1.2 billion through a partnership between the Government of Kenya and the African Development Bank, is now supplying safe water to about 100,000 people across the three towns.
Clean Water Turning Daily Struggles Into Progress
For years, families relied on long walks to the river or unreliable sources that were often unsafe and time-consuming. Today, that reality is changing.
The new system treats 8,000 cubic meters of water daily using the Nzoia River, and its unique gravity-fed design, powered by a hydro‑turbine, helps cut distribution costs while keeping the supply constant. More than 85 kilometers of new pipelines have been laid, connecting homes, schools, businesses, and rural villages.
This means students are spending more time in class, and small businesses, from eateries to salonsare operating more confidently with steady water access.
Residents say the project has already reshaped their routines, turning hours once spent fetching water into time for work, school, farming, and family.
County officials and engineers note that, beyond improving access to clean water, the project lays the foundation for future growth in agriculture, small industries, and renewable-energy-powered development.
Also Read: 157 Groups Gather in Siaya as PS Omollo Widows Program Surpasses 22,000 Beneficiaries
The Ugunja–Sega–Ukwala Water Supply Project is now being seen as a model for how clean water and sustainable energy can build healthier, more resilient communities across Kenya.
Changes for Fishing Communities in Siaya
Siaya is also experiencing major progress along Lake Victoria as the blue economy gains momentum.
New, modern fish landing sites, such as the completed Luanda K’Otieno site, now offer cold storage and improved handling facilities, helping fishermen keep their catch fresh and earn higher incomes.
The county has additionally rolled out six modern Glass‑Reinforced Plastic (GRP) patrol boats, replacing old wooden vessels and giving Beach Management Units safer, stronger boats to patrol the lake, curb illegal fishing, and protect fish stocks.
These improvements are boosting safety, supporting sustainable fishing, and helping local families benefit more directly from the lake’s resources.
Also Read: Plans for Lake Victoria Waterfront Inch Closer as Kisumu Secures Grant
A new Fish‑Farming Powerhouse in Kisumu
The neighbouring Kisumu County is rapidly emerging as a regional fish‑farming giant thanks to the Ksh 1.3 billion Kabonyo–Kanyagwal Aquaculture Center, a landmark project that will produce 28 million fingerlings each year, restock Lake Victoria, and train farmers in modern aquaculture methods.
Alongside this massive investment, Kisumu is also receiving new, modern fish landing sites equipped with cold storage and processing facilities, helping fishermen reduce losses and sell higher-quality fish.
These developments are creating new jobs, raising local incomes, and positioning Kisumu as a major driver of the blue economy along the lakeside.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
