This sector plays an important role in the development of the county as a whole. Core function for Directorate is a set of activities that are central to the existence of its key competences and also culture, which is the provision of clean water in adequate amounts and safe sewerage services in the most economical and efficient way.
The main water sources in the county for domestic, livestock and irrigation use comprises of surface water and ground water. Surface water sources are Tana River and 150 water pans while ground water comprises of 60 deep boreholes and a number of shallow wells with insignificant production. Access to safe, adequate and affordable water and sanitation services is fundamental human right and vital to human dignity, health, economic and social development however in Garissa County this falls below the required standard.
The sources considered safe can only serve 30% of the water requirement for domestic and livestock water needs. The estimated water demand stands at 24,000,000m3 per year and while the supply is 6,000,000m3 per year which leaves a deficit of 17,000,000m3 depicting a very gloomy scenario across the county.
Vision
To be the leading service provision sector with excellent access to adequate safe and affordable water and sanitation services in the county.
Mission
To enhance efficiency and effectiveness in the coordinated provision of affordable and accessible safe water in the county.
Garissa County has one permanent river (River Tana), 25 shallow wells, 65 boreholes, 177 water pans and one dam. The Garissa Water and Sewerage Company (GAWASCO) supplies treated water to the residents. Water from other sources is generally unsafe and as such it is treated at the household level by use of aqua tabs, water guard and other chlorine based purifiers supplied by the relevant government departments. Other areas of the county rely on shallow wells, boreholes and water pans.
The county is generally water scarce with acute water shortages experienced during the dry season. Various interventions have been undertaken to mitigate against these water shortages. These include water tinkering and the activation of the rapid response team charged with the responsibility of repairing boreholes during drought.
Garissa County has one permanent river (River Tana), 25 shallow wells, 65 boreholes, 177 water pans and one dam. The Garissa Water and Sewerage Company (GAWASCO) supplies treated water to the residents. Water from other sources is generally unsafe and as such it is treated at the household level by use of aqua tabs, water guard and other chlorine based purifiers supplied by the relevant government departments. Other areas of the county rely on shallow wells, boreholes and water pans.
The county is generally water scarce with acute water shortages experienced during the dry season. Various interventions have been undertaken to mitigate against these water shortages. These include water tinkering and the activation of the rapid response team charged with the responsibility of repairing boreholes during drought.
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