Residents of Mbeere South Constituency in Embu County are expressing renewed hope following progress on the Kamburu Dam Water Supply Project, an initiative aimed at ending decades of chronic water shortages in the semi-arid region.
For many years, life in Mbeere South was defined by drying seasonal streams and long treks in search of water. Despite its proximity to the Tana River and the expansive Kamburu Dam, many households have relied on shallow wells, water pans, and costly vendors to meet their daily needs.
The new project seeks to tap into Kamburu Dam’s reservoir, with plans for modern intake systems, water treatment facilities, and transmission pipelines targeting key centres such as Kiritiri, Gachoka, and surrounding rural settlements. The project now at 40% completion, once operational will have a treatment plant with a capacity of 10,000 cubic meters per day.
For some residents, the development marks the possible end of a struggle that dates back to generations.
“I was born here in 1956, and I have stayed here all my life. In Mbeere South, we have always had a water problem. Since the time of British rule, we have not had enough water to meet our needs,” said Njue Njoka, an elderly resident from Mavuria ward.
He noted that while the community has remained resilient, the lack of water has made life difficult for them.
“Now we have seen the signs,” he said. “We have seen water coming from our dam in Kamburu. I have travelled along the road from Kamburu for about ten kilometres, and pipes have been laid by this government. We have hope.” He added.
According to residents, visible infrastructure works, including pipelines and water points, have strengthened confidence that the long-awaited project may finally deliver.
Other community members say reliable water access would ease the burden on school-going children, many of whom juggle household chores before attending classes.
“You see a child carrying a bucket, firewood in a backpack, and a bag of books. When that child arrives at school, he is tired and cannot even listen to the teacher,” the resident explained. “If this water reaches us, we will farm, we will drink, and our schools will see immense benefits.” One parent highlighted.
The constituency’s arid conditions have limited agricultural productivity, forcing residents to rely on produce from neighboring areas in Embu and Meru County. If successfully implemented, the Kamburu Dam Water Supply Project is expected to not only provide clean drinking water but also support irrigation, boost food production, and strengthen drought resilience in one of Embu County’s most water-stressed constituencies.
