Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe, in collaboration with the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), flagged off the distribution of 100 water tanks, each with a capacity of 10,000 liters, to schools and churches in Kitui South Sub-County on Friday, 18 October 2024. This initiative is part of a broader partnership aimed at addressing water shortages in the region, benefiting institutions that have long struggled with inadequate water supply. The tanks are expected to play a crucial role in improving access to clean water, particularly in remote areas where water scarcity is a persistent issue.
The flagging-off ceremony followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the County Government of Kitui and NCCK. The agreement formalizes a working relationship between the two entities and focuses on implementing various development programs. The areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU include agriculture, water, tourism, health, culture, and social services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling the county’s challenges. This partnership represents a significant step forward in coordinating efforts to address the needs of Kitui’s communities.
One of the key initiatives under the partnership is the NCCK’s climate change program in Athi Ward, known as “Nature-Based Solutions.” The program aims to address the impact of climate change by implementing sustainable water management practices, including the construction of sand dams and earth dams to enhance water harvesting. The distribution of water tanks to schools and churches is also part of this effort, which seeks to improve water availability and resilience to droughts in the area. This initiative aligns with the county’s goal of increasing access to water for both domestic and agricultural use.
Rev. Canon Chris Kinyajui, who led the NCCK delegation during the MoU signing, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving long-term development goals. The event also saw the participation of other key stakeholders, including Rachael Kigame, the Country Director for Help A Child, and Edwin Onyancha from Dorcas Africa AID International. Their involvement highlights the multi-stakeholder approach being adopted to ensure the success of various programs aimed at uplifting the livelihoods of Kitui’s residents.
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), established in 1913, has a long history of contributing to social development and community welfare in Kenya. Its involvement in Kitui County demonstrates its continued commitment to addressing pressing issues such as water scarcity and climate change. The collaboration with the Kitui County Government under Governor Malombe is expected to bring about tangible benefits for communities in Kitui South and beyond, ensuring better access to water and more sustainable development outcomes.
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