NARENGEWOI WATER SUPPLY PROJECT

The Narengewoi Water Supply Project is a beacon of hope for the residents of Narengewoi, located in the arid and semi-arid region of Turkana County, Kenya. This proposed project aims to alleviate the water scarcity that has plagued this community for years. It all began in 2018 when the Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (RVWWDA) drilled a borehole in Kaloyara village, situated north of Narengewoi center, using funds from the Government Equalization Fund. The borehole is equipped with a solar-powered pump capable of delivering 15m3 of water per hour, and it is supported by an array of 34 solar modules, each with 270 watts of power. The water is stored in a 10m3 plastic tank at the borehole, which serves as a vital water source for the local residents. The residents of Narengewoi have faced a dire water crisis, exacerbated by their proximity to Lake Turkana, which is just 0.5km away and is known for its high salinity. Previous attempts to drill boreholes in the area have been unsuccessful due to the adverse effects of the lake. Therefore, the Narengewoi Water Supply Project proposes to supply water from the Kaloyara borehole, situated 8km away, to Narengewoi center, which is home to numerous settlements and institutions that have long relied on unclean water sources, such as scoops and Lake Turkana.

The proposed project includes:

1. A 5.5kw solar-powered pump (DS17/10)
2. 34 solar modules at 270W each
3. A 10m3 plastic tank located at the borehole
4. A water kiosk
5. A 6m long water trough
6. A communal water point

Topographical surveys were conducted to determine the best way to supply water to Narengewoi center, focusing on rising mains, distribution mains, tank site, and consumer points.

Oxfam, through the Turkana Pastoralist Development Project (TUPADO), will be funding this crucial project. The success of the Narengewoi Water Supply Project is expected to attract more settlements and institutions in the future, bringing wholesome, piped water to the residents and helping reduce pollution.

Narengewoi is located in Nachukui sub-location, Ngisiger location, Lake Zone Ward of Turkana North Sub-County, approximately 108km from Lodwar town. The area experiences high temperatures, minimal rainfall, and evaporation rates of 5-6 mm/day. The topography is generally flat with scattered acacia trees, and the project involves traversing soft rocks and small dry streams, requiring machinery like backhoes for trenching.

The area is administered from Nachukui and Loarengak centers, offering access to government services. Commerce is limited, and residents often transport goods from distant towns, resulting in high commodity prices. Narengewoi is home to the ECDE school, a primary school, and a dispensary, all of which rely on water trucking. Good road infrastructure and communication networks support transportation and coordination.

Agriculture in the area is challenging due to arid conditions, but residents practice indigenous livestock rearing, small-scale trading, weaving, and fishing. The lack of irrigation schemes hinders crop farming.

The Narengewoi Water Supply Project seeks to determine long-term water requirements, plan for water resource development, and provide the necessary designs and estimates for project implementation. The objectives include comparing available water resources to future demand, planning water resource development, and providing project components and quantities for tendering and implementation. The project aims to secure funding and support from individuals, the government, and NGOs to improve access to clean, piped water and reduce poverty.

The project area faces water stress, relying on Lake Turkana and unsafe scoop holes. The borehole drilled in 2018 has been a source of clean water. Water quality analysis is essential to ensure that the water meets WHO and KEBS standards for domestic use.

The Narengewoi community faces challenges such as acute drought, water shortages, and pollution of existing water sources, leading to health issues and low school enrollment. The project will reduce the time spent fetching water, improve food sufficiency, and enhance community safety. It will have a positive impact on the lives of the residents.

The project will be managed by the community institution, ensuring sustainability. A project committee will oversee implementation and future operation and maintenance. Technical assistance is available from the Ministry of Water, and the community will receive training on project management, conflict resolution, and roles and responsibilities.

Population figures for humans and livestock are considered in the project, with a focus on human growth and livestock stability. Institutions and commercial facilities are minimal in the area.