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Concern as water shortage persists in Isiolo town, environs

A dry tap at one of the government offices in Isiolo town, as pictured on April 9, 2024. (Photo: Waweru Wairimu)

By Waweru Wairimu | 09 Apr 2024

IWASCO Manager Abdullahi Sora says the shortage has resulted from the destruction of water infrastructure within Lewa Downs, following heavy rains.

Isiolo's Bulapesa and Wabera Ward residents have lamented over a water shortage spanning more than a week, which has also hit Isiolo town, halting supply to schools, hospitals and other institutions.

They have been forced to dig deeper into their pockets for water from local vendors who are selling the commodity at exorbitant prices, with a 20-litre jerrican costing between Sh30 and Sh50 depending on the location.

The shortage took a toll on Muslim faithful during the holy month of Ramadan, with their hygiene affected.

In the hotel industry, some establishments within Isiolo town, Mwangaza and Kulamawe are on the verge of closing due to the crisis, which has lowered standards of hygiene due to rationing.

"I am forced to harvest rainwater because buying it is costly. I am contemplating closing down because I do not want to compromise my customers' hygiene," Hassan Muthomi, a hotel owner at Kambi ya Juu, said.

A water bowser is pictured in Isiolo town on April 9, 2024. (Photo: Waweru Wairimu)

Hassan Guyo, a Mwangaza resident, expressed fears that the shortage could spark an outbreak of water-borne diseases in the region.

"We hardly take water because the pipes have run dry and the little we can buy has to be used sparingly."

Locals blamed the Isiolo Water and Sanitation Company (IWASCO), saying it has not promptly addressed the crisis and issued updates detailing measures, if any, for correcting the situation.

"The company is only concerned with the collection of water bills, not ensuring the regular supply of the commodity," Safia Yussuf noted.

IWASCO Manager Abdullahi Sora told The Eastleigh Voice that the shortage resulted from the destruction of water infrastructure within Lewa Downs, following heavy rains.

"Our officers are repairing the damaged pipes and unblocking the infrastructure by removing the debris trapped inside," Abdullahi said, adding that the situation would be corrected immediately.

"We apologise for the inconvenience caused to our users. We are working on ensuring they have water later in the day".

Residents suggested that the organisation invest in pipes that can withstand the pressure of raging floodwaters.