A critical water supply project nearly a decade in the making was launched by Garissa Governor Nathif Jama on Thursday.

The initiative brings renewed hope to thousands of residents in the semi-arid region.

The Baraki–Maalimin-Afweine Water Supply Project, initiated in 2016 and completed in June 2025, was described by the Governor as “more than infrastructure, it's dignity, health, and opportunity for our people.”

Spanning 48 kilometers, the water system draws from three boreholes two of which are currently active and producing a combined 40,000 litres per hour.

It includes two booster stations located at Guyobombi and Languyatta, each equipped with 225,000-litre masonry tanks.

The network serves over 2,000 households across Baraki, Maalimin, and Afweine, and connects critical institutions such as two primary schools, two dispensaries, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) center, and two mosques.

“This project is a testament to patience, partnership, and persistence,” said Governor Jama during the commissioning ceremony.

“It meets the highest safety standards, and it brings with it the promise of better health, education, and gender equality.”

The project also aligns with Kenya Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).

Governor Jama announced upcoming efforts to solarize the boreholes, a move aimed at reducing operational costs, cutting carbon emissions, and unlocking access to climate financing through carbon credit markets.

Development partners including CARE Kenya and Islamic Relief were commended for their role in supporting both this project and broader water access initiatives in the region, particularly in areas like Modogashe.

Governor Jama urged residents to take ownership of the water system, emphasizing the need for good governance and long-term sustainability.

“Let us protect this investment and ensure it serves generations to come. Maji ni Haki, Maji ni Maisha,” he said.

He was joined during the launch by senior national and county leaders, including ASAL and Regional Development PS Harsama Kello, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Garissa Senator Abdul Haji, PS for Maritime Affairs Eng. Adan Abdi Millah, Lagdera MP Abdikadir Mohamed Hussein, and Garissa Township MP Major Dekow Barrow.