Shikomari Community to Receive Free Solar-Powered Water Supply in Landmark Project

Residents of Shikomari, including Shikomari Primary School, its secondary section, and the surrounding community, will soon benefit from a free, sustainable piped water supply, thanks to a project spearheaded by philanthropist Mr. Kata Chiteri. The initiative, implemented by Davis & Shirtliff, seeks to end the community’s long-standing reliance on manual pumps and improve access to clean and safe water.

The solar-powered water project, based at Shikomari Primary School, has a 10,000-litre capacity, ensuring a steady daily supply to meet the needs of learners and residents. The project is expected to enhance sanitation, reduce waterborne diseases, and ease the burden on families, particularly women and children, who have traditionally walked long distances to fetch water. Water taps will be installed in neighboring homes, with provisions for further expansion.

During an inspection of the project, Mr. Chiteri emphasized that water scarcity has been a major challenge for decades, often forcing residents to compete for limited resources. He expressed confidence that this intervention will reduce congestion at water points and improve overall living conditions for the community.

Key installation points for the new water system include the kitchen, playground, and entrance gates of both Shikomari Primary and Secondary Schools, ensuring easy access for students and staff. Additionally, storage tanks will be installed at Shikomari Secondary School and the local church, providing additional distribution points for the community.

Speaking to Education Hotspots, Shikomari Primary School headteacher, Mr. Martin Ingutia, expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that it comes at a critical time when the local population is steadily growing. He recalled that the manual pump, installed in the 1980s by Kefinco, had served the community well but had become insufficient due to increased demand. He emphasized that reliable access to clean water will not only benefit schools but also improve public health and reduce absenteeism among learners.

This project aligns with Governor Fernandes Barasa’s “Amatsi Khumuliango” initiative, which aims to expand piped water access across Kakamega County. The county government has been actively rolling out similar projects to ensure more communities benefit from sustainable water solutions.

Mr. Chiteri urged well-wishers, corporate organizations, and government agencies to support similar community-driven initiatives, emphasizing that access to clean water is a fundamental right and a key step toward improving livelihoods. With this development, Shikomari is set for a transformation, enhancing education, public health, and economic opportunities for its residents.