The First Lady H.E Mama Rachel Ruto EGH, launched the Unoa Comprehensive School water project in Wote, Makueni County on 30th July, 2025. The project will support the Feed One, End Hunger initiative which aims to:
1. Promote food and nutrition security in schools as a core child provision right.
2. Support safe kitchen and fruit gardens that promote learning and child protection.
3. Partner with 4-K Clubs and child-led groups to encourage participation.
4. Involve children in food production and decision-making to build ownership and
voice.
Mama Rachel said that after establishing the need for water in the school, she held meetings with various stakeholders led by the PS for Water and Sanitation Mr. Julius Korir.
National Water Harvesting & Storage Authority was tasked with the implementation of the project.
“Access to water is instrumental, especially for our learners as they implement sustainable food production practices such as kitchen gardens and fruit gardens. We appreciate the concerted efforts by government agencies and development partners in the provision of water resources.” Mama Rachel Ruto
Water and Sanitation PS Julius Korir reiterated the need to increase access to clean and safe water in schools which is required for domestic, sanitation and irrigation uses. PS Korir added that Children spend a significant time of their day at school, where Water, Sanitation and Hygiene services have a great impact on student learning, health, and dignity, particularly for girls.
Makueni County Commissioner, Mr. Duncan Darusi, Makueni First Lady Anita Mutula, Tanathi Chairperson Hon. Regina Ndambuki and the School Principal Ms. Madam Winfred Sila welcomed the First Lady and all guests and appreciated the efforts spearheaded by Mama Rachel which will enhance social-economic activities within and outside the school.
Authority’s Ag. CEO Eng. Julius Mugun said the program is an initiative aimed at providing clean, safe, and reliable water access to schools, particularly in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) or the underserved areas. He added that access to clean water will improve pupil’s health, sanitation and hygiene through provision of handwashing points and clean latrines. Further, there will be reduced absenteeism hence improved performance.
“One of our core values is Sustainability. We shall therefore equip and install long-term systems on the borehole to ensure sustainability and optimal yield.” Eng. Mugun.
Also present was the Children Services PS Carren Ageng’o, Authority’s officials led by the Board of Directors; Benjamin Mwololo, Kipseng’eret Koros, Simon Ngugi and Rodgers K. Chepkwony’. Director Esther Msavi from the State Department for Irrigation represented Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho, County officials, the local administration, Unoa School administration, pupils and the community.
Unoa Comprehensive School has a population of over 1,600 pupils hence the project will provide water for domestic and irrigation uses in the school. The project will also benefit the neighboring community.
