The County government of Busia has started the repair of 175 boreholes that had broken down.
The boreholes are staggered within the Counties 35 wards.
The program started off in Marachi North ward, Butula Sub County .
Residents and more so school pupils have a reason to smile since they will get free water.
The repairs are being spearheaded by the Department of Water, Environment and Natural Resources.
The boreholes are dubbed KEFINCO.
The decision to embark on repair of hand pumps followed the intervention of Busia Deputy Governor Moses Mulomi to coordinate with the department of water.
The repairs and maintenance of hand pumps across the county is to ensure residents have water during this dry period.
Residents of Sigulu village and pupils of St Mary’s Butula Girls Primary School in Marachi North Ward lauded the County Government for repairing the boreholes.
“The boreholes had remained dysfunctional for the last one year, forcing us to trek for over three kilometers in search of water. What a relief to us,” said a resident and student Michelle Awino.
Butula Girls standard seven pupils said their hand pump broke down a week ago forcing them to fetch water at the Butula mission.
Butula Girls Primary School head Eglay Mukonzo said the school has had no water since January.
“I am happy that my girls who spent much of their time looking for water can now concentrate on their studies. “She said.
Butula Sub County Administrator Caroline Oduor thanked Governor Ojaamong and deputy governor Moses Mulomi for their concerted efforts in having broken KEFINCO boreholes repaired.
The County Department of water also said it will supply water to institutions and markets as it seeks to address the water shortage.