About

The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund has launched a new initiative in Marsabit County, Kenya, aimed at transforming water access and resilience for communities vulnerable to recurring crises and environmental shocks.

With a funding allocation of 40,000,000, the project will focus on constructing sand dams for multipurpose water use, benefiting around 15,000 people. These sand dams will serve as nature-based resilience investments, reducing surface runoff, improving aquifer recharge, and enhancing water quality and availability. By creating sustainable water sources for domestic, irrigation, and livestock use, the project seeks to unlock further funding from government budgets, development partners, and private foundations for large-scale replication.

Alongside the construction of sand dams, the project will introduce One Stop Service Centres (OS2Cs) in Marsabit and Garissa counties. These youth-led small and medium enterprises will be equipped to provide technical support, maintenance services, and spare parts for water infrastructure such as hand-dug wells, pumps, and solar-powered systems. The centers will work closely with local government to address gaps caused by non-functional boreholes, broken handpumps, unreliable systems, and untreated water, ensuring more reliable and inclusive water services across the county. This approach aims to not only strengthen water system sustainability but also foster local ownership and create economic opportunities for youth.

Eligibility

The project, scheduled to run from October 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, will start with feasibility assessments and the design of six sand dam sites, followed by the construction of three fully equipped sand dams with infiltration galleries, suction wells, and hand pump installations. Community committees will be formed to guide and participate in the process, contributing local materials and building ownership of the infrastructure. In parallel, at least five youth entrepreneurs will be identified, trained, and supported to manage the OS2Cs, ensuring long-term sustainability of the water systems while promoting local employment and innovation in water management.

Post Date: September 17, 2025