Residents of Kiareni village in Marani Ward will soon enjoy improved water security following the launch of a county-funded borehole project under the leadership of Governor Simba Arati.

Once completed, the borehole aimed at providing clean, reliable, and sustainable water to the area is expected to serve Kiareni ELCK Senior School, Kiareni Comprehensive School, and surrounding households, significantly easing the burden of water scarcity for both institutions and residents.

Speaking during the project’s launch, Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo urged the community to take ownership of the initiative and embrace responsible water use to safeguard the resource for future generations.

“These projects are important steps toward improving access to water while strengthening climate resilience in our communities,” said Obebo. He noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Simba Arati’s manifesto and the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), which prioritize improved livelihoods through enhanced access to clean and safe water.

The project was identified through a participatory climate risk assessment process, ensuring that community needs, local conditions, and climate vulnerabilities were taken into account. County officials say this approach promotes sustainable development while strengthening resilience to climate-related risks.

According to project engineers, a hydrogeological survey conducted prior to drilling confirmed the presence of underground water aquifers in the area. The report guided the selection of the drilling site, target depth, and projected water yield.

Engineers on site indicated that the borehole is expected to reach a depth of approximately 250 metres and produce between 5 and 8 cubic metres of water, sufficient to meet local demand. Once drilling is complete, the water will undergo testing and treatment to ensure it meets safety and quality standards before being released for public use.

County officials noted that the Kiareni borehole forms part of Governor Arati’s broader strategy to expand access to clean and safe water across Kisii County, particularly in water-stressed areas. Similar projects are currently underway or planned in other wards as the county works to enhance water security and build resilience against prolonged dry spells.

The borehole will be powered by a solar energy system, a move officials say will reduce operational costs while ensuring a reliable and environmentally sustainable water supply.

Upon completion, the project is expected to stimulate local economic activities such as small-scale farming and livestock keeping.

For many residents of Kiareni, the borehole will provide reliable access to clean water close to their homes for the first time in years, significantly reducing the distance travelled to fetch the precious commodity.