President William Ruto officially commissioned the Simotwo Water Project and the Etio Dam in Elgeyo Marakwet County on July 12, 2025, marking a significant step in improving clean water access in Kenya for over 8,000 households.
The Ruto water project launch, reported by The Star, is part of a broader development agenda to enhance water infrastructure in Kenya and support community empowerment Elgeyo Marakwet.
The event, attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, also included tree planting for the Kaptagat Forest conservation initiative and the handover of a mining license to Sofax Ltd.
The Simotwo Water Project delivers piped water to local communities, addressing long-standing water scarcity Elgeyo Marakwet issues. The Etio Dam, with a 160-million-liter storage capacity, will support irrigation, livestock, and domestic use, fostering food security Kenya and economic growth.
“This will be a game-changer for our youth in terms of job creation,” said Mining CS Hassan Joho, highlighting the dam’s role in Elgeyo Marakwet economic development.
Residents, previously trekking kilometres for water, expressed relief, with local leader Boaz Balyat noting the project’s potential to transform lives.
Ruto’s visit, part of a North Rift tour, also addressed the Fluorspar mining revival in Kimwarer, expected to create jobs after years of delays due to global price declines.
The President’s focus on Kenya development projects aligns with his administration’s push for infrastructure development Kenya, including roads and education facilities.
However, critics citing the Saba Saba protests 2025, question the government’s priorities amid Kenya political tensions and a youth empowerment budget shortfall.
The Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme, graced by Ruto, aims to restore 34 hectares of forest while empowering 28,000 households, balancing environmental conservation Kenya with socio-economic growth.
Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo, a key figure in the initiative, emphasized its role in combating poverty-driven forest degradation.
The Tirwane Water Project groundbreaking further signals Ruto’s commitment to sustainable development Kenya.
As 2027 Kenya elections approach, Ruto’s focus on water projects Elgeyo Marakwet aims to bolster support in his North Rift stronghold.
Challenges like Kenya human rights concerns and stalled projects, such as the Arror and Kimwarer dams, remain points of contention.
