Water crisis deepens in Iftin Ward, Garissa, as residents demand boreholes and water tanks to ease shortages

Residents of Iftin Ward in Garissa Township are calling on the county government to address the persistent water shortages by drilling two additional boreholes and constructing two elevated water tanks to meet the needs of the growing population.

Led by community representative Mahat Mohamed, the residents said the existing infrastructure, two boreholes and one elevated tank, can no longer sustain the area's rising demand.

"We wish to bring to the attention of the County Government that the current water system no longer meets the needs of our expanding population. Homes, schools, and health facilities are all struggling to access sufficient clean water," said Mahat.

He noted that many households are now forced to buy water from private vendors at high prices, further straining already tight family budgets. The shortage, he added, has disrupted operations in schools and hospitals that rely on a consistent water supply.

Mahat also questioned what became of the original Maramtu Water Project design, which he said had promised to solve the area's chronic water challenges.

Another resident, Mohamed Sheikh Hassan, said expanding the water infrastructure would ensure equitable access for all.

"This problem has persisted for years, leaving us at the mercy of private vendors who charge exorbitant rates," Mohamed said. "We urge the county to treat this as a matter of priority."

Ifrah Abdi, another resident, emphasised that women bear the brunt of the crisis.

"Fetching water has become one of our biggest daily struggles. We appeal to the county to dig more boreholes. Water is all we want," she said.

Contacted for comment, Garissa Water and Sewerage Company (GAWASCO)Public Relations Officer Omar Abdullahi acknowledged that Iftin Ward is among the areas experiencing shortages, but assured residents that plans are underway to address the problem.

"The population has grown significantly, stretching our current infrastructure," Abdullahi said. "Subject to funding, we plan to add two boreholes and two elevated tanks to serve the community."

Meanwhile, Governor Nathif Jama on Wednesday commissioned the Waberi-Maramtu Water Extension Project, expected to ease water pressure in the surrounding areas, including Bula Kunaso, Bula Tawakal-Upper, Upper Bula Mzuri, Al-Azhal, Bula Rahma-Upper, Dar-Salam, Hodhan 3, and Lower Bashal.

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• Water crisis deepens in Iftin Ward
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