Efforts to resolve a long-standing water distribution dispute surrounding the Chelugui Water Project intensified on Friday as senior Uasin Gishu County officials visited the affected communities in Ainabkoi Constituency.
The intervention was led by County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Energy, Mr. Anthony Sitienei, accompanied by Acting Director for Water Services, Mr. Charles Tanui. The visit aimed to de-escalate tensions and provide a long-term solution to disagreements over water sharing between Usalama, Chemusian, and Chelugui residents in Kaptagat Ward and Ainabkoi-Olare Ward.
The delegation was joined by area representatives, including Kaptagat MCA Hon. Jonathan Ngetich and Ainabkoi-Olare MCA Hon. Gilbert Chepkong’a, who emphasized the importance of cooperation and dialogue.
“Water is a natural resource, and we are all obliged to share and use it responsibly,” said Mr. Sitienei while addressing residents at the site. “Under Nguzo Number 7 of our development blueprint, we are committed to ensuring equitable access to clean and reliable water for every household in Uasin Gishu.”
Mr. Charles Tanui addressed the technical root of the conflict, noting that existing infrastructure constraints had contributed to the uneven distribution of water between the communities.
“To guarantee fairness, the distribution lines will need to be upgraded. Our technical team is reviewing the layout and capacity to ensure that both areas benefit adequately from the project,” he explained.
In a bid to solidify the path forward, the leaders agreed to hold a follow-up meeting on Monday at 9:00 AM, bringing together the two MCAs and committee representatives from Chelugui and Chemusian. The meeting will aim to finalize a peaceful resolution and outline immediate corrective measures.
The Chelugui Water Project, a key initiative under the county’s rural water development program, has been instrumental in expanding access to safe water in Ainabkoi. However, rising demand and growing population pressure have triggered concerns over equitable distribution.
The County Government reaffirmed that water access remains a top priority, in line with Governor Jonathan Bii’s “Nguzo Kumi” agenda, which emphasizes inclusive development, social cohesion, and infrastructure equity.“We are committed to ensuring that no community is left behind. Our goal is to deliver clean, safe, and accessible water to all corners of Uasin Gishu,” concluded Mr. Sitienei.
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