The water crisis deepening across Nyeri, Laikipia, and Nyahururu has taken a shocking turn, leaving more than 30,000 residents without clean and reliable water. This comes after officials from the Water Resources Authority (WRA)—accompanied by armed police—vandalized the Kamiruri/Mutitu community water intake, destroying key infrastructure and redirecting water back into the river.
A Community Lifeline Built in 2009
The project, located in Mutitu, was built in 2009 by the Catholic Church to serve households, schools, and institutions across the three counties. For years, it has remained a dependable lifeline for thousands of families.
But recently, crooked officials attempted to unlawfully seize control of the project from the community. The matter went to court, and in a landmark ruling, the Court ordered that all assets be returned to the community, affirming that the project rightfully belongs to the people.
Defiance and Destruction
Instead of complying with the ruling, the defeated officials allegedly resorted to sabotage. Backed by armed police, WRA officers destroyed water meters, damaged the water outlet, and diverted the entire water flow back into the river, effectively cutting off supply to thousands overnight.
Residents and leaders have condemned the move as reckless, punitive, and unlawful.
“Jameni, hii ni haki kweli?”
The destruction has sparked anger and disbelief across the region. Community leaders are calling it a direct attack on livelihoods, affecting homes, farms, businesses, schools, and even health facilities.
As one frustrated resident put it:
“Jameni, hii ni haki kweli?”
How can armed officers destroy a community’s only water source after losing a court case?
A Call for Accountability
The community is now demanding:
- Immediate restoration of the water intake
- Accountability for those who sanctioned the destruction
- Protection of community water projects from illegal takeovers
- Respect for court orders and due process
The Mutitu community water project has stood for over a decade as a symbol of self-reliance, faith, and collective effort. What happened this week threatens not just infrastructure—but the very principle that communities have a right to manage their own resources.
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