By Andrew Mbuva.
Farmers at Katheka Kai Cooperative in Machakos County are protesting an alleged plan by the county government to take over one of their boreholes, which they say has been a lifeline for more than 200 households.
Led by their chairman, James Kimuli, the farmers claim the Machakos County Government has not formally communicated any decision or plans regarding the takeover of the water facility.
However, they allege that individuals claiming to be officials from the county government have been visiting the area and pressuring the cooperative to surrender control of the borehole.
The farmers say the facility plays a critical role in supporting agricultural activities, particularly irrigation, while also providing water for domestic use to hundreds of families in the area.
They now fear that a takeover without proper consultation could disrupt farming activities and leave many households struggling to access reliable water.
Kimuli said the cooperative was not opposed to engaging with the county government but insisted that authorities must clearly explain their intentions and formally communicate any plans concerning the borehole.
“We want transparency and proper consultations before any decision is made regarding the borehole,” he said.
The farmers are demanding meaningful engagement between the county government, the cooperative management and the more than 200 households that depend on the facility.
They have called on the Machakos County Government to clarify the reasons behind the alleged takeover plan and assure residents that their access to water and farming activities will not be compromised.
The controversy has raised concerns among residents, who are now urging the county government to engage all stakeholders before making any decision that could affect the vital water resource.
