By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
Kenya, 18 August 2026 - Residents of Bula Turkey in Elwak South Mandera County have raised alarm over a prolonged water shortage, saying they have gone 27 days without reliable access to basic water.
Residents say they have endured challenges far worse in the past, but the current water crisis has been particularly painful and difficult for the community.
The crisis is reportedly linked to the breakdown of two pumping machines, leaving families struggling to access water for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing clothes and other essential household needs.
Residents of Bula Turkey in Elwak South say they have endured persistent challenges over the years, but the current water crisis has become one of the most painful and difficult situations facing the community.
Hassan Alio, a resident of Bula Turkey, said the problems affecting the area have been persistent, but the situation worsened after the two water pumping machines broke down.
“Our problems have been persistent, but since these pumping machines broke down, we have not received any meaningful help from the relevant ministries and we have been waiting for assistance while our families continue to struggle without water,” said Hassan Alio.
He appealed to the relevant authorities to urgently intervene and restore the water supply, saying residents cannot continue waiting while facing difficulties accessing a basic necessity.
The shortage has particularly affected women, children and elderly residents, who rely on the water system for their daily activities.
Families have been forced to endure prolonged difficulties as they wait for the water supply to be restored.
On Tuesday, residents peacefully took to the streets to demonstrate and draw attention to the situation, calling for urgent intervention to address the water crisis.
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Residents are appealing to the Mandera County Government, National Government, elected leaders, humanitarian organisations, NGOs and well-wishers to intervene and provide an immediate solution.
“We are asking: when will this basic necessity be provided to the residents? Must the situation become much worse before the relevant ministry intervenes? We need action now, before the water crisis turns into a bigger problem.” Residents added.
They are calling for the two pumping machines to be repaired or replaced, while urging authorities to provide emergency water through water tankers or other available means if a permanent solution will take longer.
Residents say access to clean and reliable water is a basic necessity and should not be treated as a luxury.
The community has also appealed to well-wishers and organisations willing to support the emergency response to come forward and help provide water to affected families.
The residents message is clear Bula Turkey needs water, and it needs urgent action.
The situation has remains persistent as lasting solution to water challenges affecting communities in Elwak South, with residents urging relevant authorities to ensure the area has a reliable and sustainable water supply.