ONJIKO KOBONG’O, Nyando –In a significant milestone for the region, the Onjiko Kobong’o Schools and Community Water Project was officially commissioned today, marking the end of an era defined by water scarcity and health risks.
The project, implemented by the Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA), will now deliver clean, reliable, and sustainable water to over 650 students and more than 1,000 households.
The commissioning ceremony was graced by the area Member of Parliament, Hon. Jared Okello, alongside LBDA leadership, including Chairman Mr. James Waore Diang’a and Managing Director CPA Wycliffe Ochiaga.
For years, the school and neighbouring community have relied on erratic rainfall and polluted waters from the Nyando River, exposing them to waterborne diseases and undermining students’ academic concentration.
With the project now operational, students can focus on their studies, free from the burden of thirst and illness.
The project, aligned with the National Government’s Greening Agenda, features a solarized system with 7KW power output, six cubic metres capacity, and two 20,000-litre storage tanks, directly benefiting 650 students and 1,000 households.
While LBDA implemented the project, its success was heavily driven by area MP Jared Okello’s influence.
Speaking at the event, LBDA Managing Director CPA Wycliffe Ochiaga lauded the MP’s commitment to the constituency’s development.
“We celebrate this partnership with your MP, whose unwavering support has turned this vision into reality,” said CPA Ochiaga. “Beyond this project, Jared Okello has influenced water projects and dike rehabilitation. For the first time in recent heavy rains, we recorded minimal displacements from River Nyando’s bursts a testament to his interventions.”
Ochiaga also commended the MP’s role in economic empowerment, stating: “Through his influence, we have mobilised resources to mop up paddy rice, shielding our farmers from post-harvest losses and middlemen exploitation.”
On sustainability, Ochiaga affirmed that the project’s upkeep now rests with the school and community. “Today we officially hand over this infrastructure. Repairs and maintenance are now the school’s responsibility, ensuring funds are available for last-mile connectivity,” he explained.
A token contribution system will be introduced after an initial two-week free access period to facilitate future expansion.
Beyond health benefits, the project saves students from long treks to the river.
“Next year, we expect increased enrolment and better results because learners will retain that extra minute once spent fetching water for their studies,” Ochiaga added.
The commissioning of the Onjiko Kobong’o project signals a new chapter of health, dignity, and academic promise for the community.
