Over 1,323 residents in Bomet to benefit from new Baraka water project.
…Research shows that only 15% of the population in Bomet have regular access to safe water.
Browns Plantations Kenya has today commissioned the Baraka water project in Boito Ward, Bomet County as part of its initiatives to enhance water accessibility and empower local communities within the region.
The project is set to benefit over 1,323 residents in the county, providing cattle troughs, water collection points, and protective fencing around the springs to the local community. Further, the project was designed to be sustainable, as evidenced by the indigenous tree seedlings that were planted around the spring catchment area and the use of solar power to pump water to the different collection points, thus enhancing the local ecosystem and water retention capacity.
Speaking during the commissioning event, Browns Plantations Kenya Managing Director Simeon Hutchinson said “The commissioning of the Baraka water project marks a critical milestone in addressing water scarcity in the county. It exemplifies our mission to not only provide access to safe water for the local community but also to establish sustainable practices that will benefit the community for generations. Our investment in renewable energy and community training underscores our commitment to building sustainable infrastructure in Kericho and Bomet counties.“
According to a report by the Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB), only 36% of the Kenyan population has access to a regular supply of water. Further, only 15% of the population in Bomet have regular access to safe water. By taking a collaborative approach and working closely with local communities to identify their specific needs, the Trust ensures that its initiatives are both impactful and sustainable.
Bomet County Governor, Professor Hillary Barchok said, “I’d like to thank the Finlays Community Trust for their commitment to enhancing access to safe water to our residents. Their innovative approach to water management and community engagement provides a valuable model that we can learn from and collaborate with to create sustainable infrastructure projects within the county.”
The Finlays Community Trust has invested in and supported five water projects in Kericho and Bomet counties. These include the Seretut (Belgut sub-county), Kipchobos (Konoin sub-county), Chepinyonyoi (Ainamoi sub-county), Mosore (Bureti sub-county) and the newly commissioned Baraka (Konoin Sub- County) water spring. The Trust is currently working on a feasibility study for the construction of its sixth water project.
The five commissioned water projects directly benefit approximately 1,520 households and their livestock, as well as 101,323 individuals indirectly. Over Ksh.21 million was spent on the construction of the projects. Through the continuous partnership with the local community, the Trust has conducted several training sessions to sensitise members on the sustainable use and maintenance of the water projects which support households, primary and secondary schools, and dispensaries in Bomet and Kericho counties.
About the Finlays Community Trust
The Finlays Community Trust is an independent charity that empowers communities and nurtures sustainable growth in Kericho and Bomet Counties. Funded by Browns Plantations Kenya (previously James Finlay Kenya) and Finlays, the Trust aims to deliver maximum social, environmental, and economic benefits by taking a collaborative approach and appointing trustees who represent local communities, thus creating shared value. By partnering with the community, we ensure the Trust invests in and supports the projects and initiatives that have the most meaningful and enduring impact.
For further information please visit https://www.finlayscommunitytrust.co.ke/
