By Staff Writer |  Wajir Today| Wednesday, 8 October 2025

After nearly 30 years of crippling water shortages, residents of Gerille in Wajir South can now look forward to clean, reliable water following the drilling of a new borehole under the Deris Wanaag Project.

The announcement was made by Wajir South MP Mohamed Adow during a public participation and community sensitisation meeting in Wajir, where he described the project as a landmark achievement for the long-neglected area.

“After nearly three decades of water scarcity, the residents of Gerille can finally celebrate the successful drilling of a new borehole, a landmark achievement made possible through the concerted efforts of my office, in partnership with Raia Development Initiative, under the Deris Wanaag Project supported by the British Government,” said Mr Adow.

He noted that several attempts to provide a sustainable water source for Gerille in previous years had been hindered by harsh environmental conditions and technical barriers.

The borehole, situated outside the main town, will be connected to a modern pipeline network that will channel water directly to the heart of Gerille, ensuring every household benefits.

The Deris Wanaag Project, implemented by Raia Development Initiative with funding from the British Government, focuses on promoting peaceful coexistence, resilience, and sustainable development across Northern Kenya.

Gerille, a semi-arid settlement near the Kenya–Somalia border, has faced recurring droughts that have devastated livestock and livelihoods. The community has long depended on shallow wells and water trucking, which were unreliable and expensive.