Kiwayu Desalination Plant Set to Transform Water Access for Over 800 Lamu Residents

Kenya, May 31 ,2026 - More than 800 residents of Kiwayu and neighbouring areas in Lamu County are set to benefit from improved access to safe drinking water following the commissioning of a reverse osmosis water treatment plant aimed at addressing chronic water shortages in the region.

The Kiwayu Water Reverse Osmosis Plant was commissioned under the Kiunga Water, Sanitation and Conservation Project by Lamu Deputy Governor Mohamed Mbarak Bahjaj, alongside representatives from the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya and Somalia and the Water Sector Trust Fund (WaterFund).

For years, residents of the remote coastal area have relied on unsafe water sources, with women and children often travelling long distances in search of clean water.

Speaking during the launch, Dr Bahjaj said the project would significantly improve access to safe water and enhance the livelihoods of local communities.

He noted that the project was implemented through a partnership between WaterFund and the Lamu County Government at a cost of Sh28.8 million, with WaterFund contributing Sh26.2 million and the county government providing Sh2.6 million.

“The initiative is transforming lives across Lamu County,” said the deputy governor, while acknowledging WaterFund's continued support through the Sustainable Management and Access to Water and Sanitation in the ASALs Programme.

According to project officials, the facility will provide safe drinking water to more than 825 residents while complementary conservation initiatives are expected to benefit over 1,200 people.

The project also includes sanitation interventions that have supported the attainment of Open Defecation Free status in several villages, improving public health and hygiene standards.