Clean Water Access Programme

Access to clean, reliable water has been among the most persistent challenges facing Embu County residents — particularly in the semi-arid Mbeere sub-counties where communities have historically relied on seasonal rivers, boreholes, and water trucking. Governor Cecily Mbarire identified water access as a foundational priority from her first days in office. Under the Department of Water, Irrigation, Environment, Climate Change & Natural Resources, led by CEC Florence Ndinda Musyoka, the county has pursued an aggressive programme of pipeline extension, borehole drilling, and water pan construction since 2023. New domestic water connections have been made in previously unserved areas, with particular attention to public institutions schools, health centres, markets, and bus parks that serve as community hubs. Clean water at schools directly supports education attendance, particularly for girls who previously spent hours fetching water. Clean water at health facilities is non-negotiable for patient safety and infection control. In the Mbeere North and South areas, the county has sunk new boreholes and constructed water storage reservoirs to buffer communities through prolonged dry seasons. These investments complement the Runyenjes Irrigation Scheme by ensuring water availability for both domestic use and smallholder farming. The county has also launched awareness programmes on water conservation and hygiene, working with community health volunteers to drive behaviour change on sanitation and handwashing — reducing waterborne disease burden across the county.