Hope for Thousands as Migori Moves to Revive Stalled Water Projects Hit by Solar Panel Theft
Thousands of Migori residents who have endured unreliable access to clean water could soon get relief after the county government pledged to restore and complete stalled water projects crippled by persistent vandalism and theft of solar equipment.
The assurance was given by Migori County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water and Energy, Silas Oduor, during a County Assembly committee oversight session, where concerns were raised about several water projects that have remained non-operational despite significant public investment.
Oduor acknowledged that theft and vandalism, particularly the stealing of solar panels used to power boreholes and water pumping systems, have become a major obstacle in the county’s efforts to expand access to clean and safe water.
“We understand the frustrations residents face when projects meant to improve their lives stop functioning. That is why we are committed to restoring these facilities and ensuring they serve the communities they were intended to benefit,” he said.
One of the most affected projects is the Nyabikondo Water Project, which had successfully supplied water to residents from 2023 until January 2026 when thieves reportedly stole all its solar panels, bringing operations to a complete halt.
According to Oduor, the Nyabikondo case is not isolated. Several other projects across the county have suffered similar attacks, forcing the department to repeatedly spend money replacing stolen equipment instead of investing in new projects.
“The theft of solar panels is costing taxpayers millions of shillings and delaying service delivery. Every time equipment is stolen, residents are the biggest losers because they are left without water,” he said.
Despite these setbacks, the county government has continued allocating funds for rehabilitation and restoration works, with plans already underway to revive affected projects.
Residents Urged to Protect Public Investments
The county government has now called on residents to take an active role in protecting public infrastructure from vandals and criminal gangs targeting solar-powered facilities.
Oduor emphasized that safeguarding community projects should not be left to the government alone.
“These are projects built using public resources. We urge communities to report suspicious activities and work closely with security agencies to protect infrastructure that directly benefits them,” he said.
The appeal comes amid growing concern over increasing cases of vandalism affecting not only water projects but also public utilities across different parts of the county.
Progress Despite Challenges
Even as the county battles vandalism, officials say significant progress has been made in improving water access.
Oduor revealed that the Bagdad Water Project is currently operational and serving residents as intended, providing a model for other projects undergoing restoration.
He further disclosed that the county had planned to implement 84 water projects during the current financial year, with 54 already completed and several others at advanced stages of implementation.
The CECM expressed confidence that the department would surpass 90 percent project absorption before the close of the financial year.
“We remain focused on ensuring every resident has access to clean and safe water. Our goal is to make sure that households can access a water point within a radius of 500 metres,” he said.
The ambitious target is expected to significantly reduce the burden on women and children who often travel long distances in search of water, particularly in rural areas.
Expanding Water and Energy Infrastructure
Beyond water projects, the department has also intensified efforts to improve energy access and security in local markets.
According to Oduor, more than 120 solar-powered street lights have been installed across markets in Migori County during the current financial year.
The lighting projects are aimed at enhancing security, supporting businesses that operate during evening hours, and stimulating local economic growth.
At the same time, the county has extended approximately 15 kilometres of water pipelines through the Migori Water and Sanitation Company network, increasing access to treated water for more households.
The department says additional pipeline expansion projects are planned as part of a broader strategy to improve water reliability and coverage across the county.
Science Behind Successful Boreholes
Meanwhile, officials have sought to address concerns about failed borehole projects by explaining the technology used during site selection.
County surveyor John Ocholla said modern scientific methods are employed before drilling begins to increase the chances of striking reliable underground water sources.
“We use advanced technology to identify underground water reserves. Experts assess water flow consistency, geological formations, and environmental conditions before recommending drilling sites,” he explained.
According to Ocholla, the process helps reduce the risk of failed boreholes while ensuring public resources are utilized effectively.
He also clarified a common misconception among residents that government water should be provided free of charge.
“Water infrastructure requires huge investments. There are costs involved in drilling, treatment, maintenance, pumping, and distribution. These services are supported through taxes and consumer payments,” he said.
A Renewed Commitment
As Migori County prepares for the next financial year, officials have pledged to prioritize the completion of pending projects and strengthen measures aimed at protecting public infrastructure from vandalism.
For many residents who have waited years for reliable water services, the county’s commitment offers renewed hope that stalled projects will finally be completed and that access to clean water—a basic necessity for health, education, and economic development—will become a reality for more households.
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