The Danish Minister for Environment Ms. Lea Wermelin visited the Thika Githunguri Water and sanitation improvement project. The project is financed by the Government of Kenya in partnership with Danida Sustainable Infrastructure Finance (DSIF) and will be implemented by Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA) at a cost of Kshs 17 billion. It will provide safe, reliable and affordable water and Sanitation Services to the residents of Thika and Githunguri Township in Kiambu County.
Speaking during the visit, the Environment Minister Ms. Wermelin said that she is pleased with the close partnership between the two countries. The Danida Sustainable Infrastructure Finance (DSIF) DSIF Investment Director Ms. Annelise Boysen praised the project saying it project will be crucial in transforming the livelihoods of locals within Kiambu County.
“In Thika, the project will provide clean and affordable water to 253,000 people and about 331,000 people will be connected to piped sewerage. In addition, the project will contribute to climate adaptation in Kenya with an energy efficient design. This includes production and use of renewable energy, such as biogas and hydropower,” said Ms. Annelise Boysen.
The Athi Water Works Development Agency Chief Manager – Water & Sanitation Eng. Joseph Kamau noted that the project will be implemented for 5 years. “The procurement of the design review and procurement consultant is currently ongoing and is expected to be complete by March 2022 and the works are expected to be done within a period of 36 months upon signature of the works contract.” he said.
The Minister was flanked by the Danish Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Ole Thonke, DSIF Investment Director Annelise Boysen, AWWDA Chief Manager – Water & Sanitation Eng. Joseph Kamau, Area DCC Mr. Mbogo Mathioya, Kiambu County Water and Environment CECM Mr. David Kuria, Chairman Thika Water & Sewerage Company Eng. Joseph Wakimani, Managing Director Thika Water & Sewerage Company Dr. Moses Kinya among other officials.