Kisii County governor’s plans to ensure every household is served with clean water by the end of his first term in office have been received with mixed reactions by a section of area residents.
Governor Ongwae announced on Sunday that his government was keen to pump water to every household, revealing that Ministry of Water had set aside some money to effect the project.
However, the area residents revealed that the project is partly welcome, with those opposed to it accusing the governor of ‘setting his priorities upside-down’.
“Water project was long overdue but I don’t think people really need water since at least every resident has access to clean water due to exemplary weather in Gusii highlands. There are more pressing issues like having good roads that can help farmers transport their farm produce being an agricultural county,” said Peter Makamara, a resident.
His sentiments were supported by former Mosocho councilor Aron Ondimu who insisted roads networks should be given first priority.
“He should come up with the water project after fixing road problems. Many of our roads are in very poor conditions and need urgent repair,” he said.
However, a section of residents led by businessman Martin Omwanwa welcomed the project and urged the county government to hasten the program.
“It’s a long overdue project. People need access to clean water so that they can even reduce the distance covered to get the basic need. With water, many things such as agriculture will be boosted,” he said.