Elie-Kalokol Water Supply Project – Phase II
Project Overview
The Elie–Kalokol Water Supply Project – Phase II is a strategic water development initiative undertaken by Rumhas Construction Co. Ltd under the mandate of the North Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency (NRVWWDA). This phase focuses on expanding and improving the existing water supply network serving communities across the Elie–Kalokol region of Turkana County, an area heavily affected by persistent water shortages and harsh climatic conditions.
The project includes rehabilitation of intake structures, installation of new HDPE and GI transmission pipelines, construction of additional storage tanks, and improvement of distribution networks to ensure steady and equitable water supply. Rumhas Construction employs robust engineering practices designed to withstand the region’s demanding environment, while prioritizing system efficiency and sustainability.
By strengthening water access for households, institutions, and pastoral communities, the project enhances daily living conditions, supports livestock survival, and contributes to long-term social and economic resilience within the region.
Problem identification
Turkana County faces chronic water scarcity due to arid conditions, limited rainfall, and inadequate water infrastructure. Communities along the Elie-Kalokol corridor previously relied on unreliable handpumps, seasonal rivers, and distant water points, resulting in long travel times, waterborne diseases, and reduced school attendance. Existing pipelines were insufficient to meet growing demand and lacked proper maintenance, causing frequent disruptions. The scarcity impacted public health, economic activities, and social development. Without intervention, residents continued to face hardships in accessing safe water, and local institutions like schools and dispensaries struggled to provide essential services. A sustainable, community-oriented water supply system was urgently required.
The Solution
Phase II of the project addressed water access challenges by constructing a 10 km gravity main pipeline extension, rehabilitating existing rising and gravity mains, and installing standardized pipeline structures including air valves, washouts, and block valves. Community water points and water kiosks were strategically located near schools, dispensaries, and settlements to reduce travel time and improve accessibility. Spring protection works were implemented to safeguard natural water sources. Detailed as-built drawings ensured precise construction and future maintenance. This holistic approach provided a reliable, sustainable, and safe water supply system, combining infrastructure development with community-centered service delivery.
Impact & Results
The project significantly improved water access for residents of the Elie-Kalokol corridor, reducing travel distances and increasing availability of safe drinking water. Schools and health facilities now benefit from a reliable water supply, enhancing educational outcomes and healthcare delivery. The community water kiosks empower local residents to access water conveniently while reducing dependency on unsafe sources. Improved infrastructure reduces waterborne diseases, promotes hygiene, and fosters economic activities such as small-scale farming and livestock rearing. By enhancing water security, Phase II of the project strengthens social well-being, public health, and resilience to drought, contributing to long-term socio-economic development in Turkana County.