Egerton University has commissioned a new water project at its Kenyatta Campus, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s efforts to improve access to essential resources and enhance campus facilities.
The project, implemented by Horizon Drilling Solutions, was officially launched by Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage on Thursday.
Prof. Kibwage, who was accompanied by members of the University Management Board (UMB), said the project would provide a reliable and sustainable water supply to the campus. Among the UMB members present were Prof. Bernard O. Aduda, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics, Research & Extension); Prof. Richard Mulwa, Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration, Finance & Planning); Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi, Registrar (Academic Affairs); Mr. Charles Wanjohi, Chief Finance Officer; Leonard Chesang’, Ag. Human Capital Administration; and Prof. George Morara Ogendi, Principal of Nakuru City Campus College. The Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization Prof. Nzula Kitaka accompanied the UMB.
The head of the University emphasized that the new water project was a critical investment as the University plans to relocate some of its Faculties to the Kenyatta Campus.
Director Income Generating Unit, Prof. Julius Kipkemboi who earlier on received by the Vice Chancellor is the Chairman of the Contract Implementation Team (CIT). Prof Kipkemboi commended the collaboration that had made the project a success. The CIT Includes: Eng. Lucas Nyagaka (Member), Mr. Kobia Mucheke (Member), Mr. David Kirwa (Member), Mr. Bernard Kipkemoi (Secretariat), Ms. Irene Cheptoo (Secretariat) and Mr. Peter Mutevu (Secretary)
The Vice Chancellor explained that the University would leave behind a previously drilled borehole for the community as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR). However, the new water project would be dedicated exclusively to university use. “As we embark on relocating Faculties such as Veterinary Medicine to this campus, we cannot risk conflict with the community over water.
This project secures our future,” said Prof. Kibwage, in the presence of Gichobo area Chief. He cautioned the Kenyatta campus In-charge against unauthorized issuance of water to the community, warning that water was an “emotive resource” that could easily spark disputes.
Other staff present at the event included Ms Mumbi Ngujiri, Mr Hezron Chwero, Ms. Beth Arungo, Ms Agnes Mwangi, and Mr John Emeripus. Their attendance underscored the wide institutional support behind the project.
Speaking during the event, Horizon Drilling Solutions thanked the the University for the opportunity to work together. They lauded Eng. Lucas Rogito Nyagaka, the University’s Water Engineer, for his dedication and collaboration with Horizon Drilling Solutions engineers in ensuring the project’s successful completion.
The Horizon company has employed Egerton University Alumni Mr Osman who took part in the water project.
To mark the historic occasion, the University team also planted trees around the campus, symbolizing growth, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. The tree planting exercise reinforced Egerton University’s commitment not only to infrastructure development but also to environmental conservation.
The new water project is expected to greatly improve teaching, research, and campus life, strengthening Kenyatta Campus’s position as a hub of academic and community growth.