The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Mwingi Central MP Gideon Mulyungi has criticised Life Water Canada, accusing the organisation of failing to involve his office and local residents in its projects within the constituency.
Speaking during a recent event in the area, Mulyungi said organisations implementing development projects should consult both the community and elected leaders before commencing their activities.
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The MP specifically addressed the NGO over its borehole-drilling projects, insisting that his involvement was necessary.
“Life Water Canada, I want to tell you that this is Mwingi Central in Kitui County, in Kenya. We do not like corruption. You must involve the community in whatever you do, and you must involve the member of parliament, who is Gideon Mulyungi,” he said.
Mulyungi went on to issue a strong warning, telling the organisation to take its boreholes back to Canada if it continued carrying out projects without involving him.
“If you don’t do that, you can take your boreholes back to Canada. Hatutaki. Washindwe washindwe,” he said.
His remarks generated mixed reactions online, with some Kenyans questioning why an elected representative would object to an organisation providing water infrastructure to residents.
Life Water Canada‘s Projects in Kenya
Life Water Canada is a Canadian charity that supports water, sanitation and hygiene initiatives in countries such as Kenya, Haiti, Nigeria and Liberia.
The organisation says its projects follow a three-stage model aimed at strengthening local capacity and encouraging communities to take ownership of the initiatives.
Under the first stage, local teams are trained and equipped to undertake various water, sanitation and hygiene activities, including well drilling, rehabilitation and repairs, latrine construction, dignity-kit distribution and WASH workshops.
The second stage involves trained local teams working together with community members to implement the projects. According to the organisation, involving residents helps foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
The final stage involves financial support from donors, which helps make the projects more affordable and accessible to communities.
