The territorial demarcation of the Haro Bota Earth dam resides within the bounds of Jirime sub-location, nestled in Marsabit County. In the local Borana dialect, the term ‘Haro Bota’ translates to ‘Vast Reservoir,’ a creation dating back over five decades. This essential water body sustains the livelihoods of more than 2,000 households and supports approximately 500 heads of livestock.
Encompassing an expanse of 20 acres, the dam’s allocation was carved from communal lands. The community has been diligently overseeing water utilization and management to prevent excessive usage, particularly during arid spells. Among the endeavors undertaken in this locale is the establishment of a tree nursery project.
The localities neighboring the reservoir encompass Chorora, Guracha Boru, Ali Wario, Dabasso, Adhi Huqa, Mata Arba, and the Diid Galgallo villages. Responsible for water stewardship and minor maintenance tasks is the water custodian.
In a joint endeavor aimed at ameliorating the escalating repercussions of water scarcity and hunger, as well as ensuring access to secure potable water, sanitation, and hygienic services for vulnerable communities and critical emergency scenarios, the Marsabit Water and Sewerage Company, in partnership with WELT HUNGER HILFE, undertook the initiative to fence the Haro Bota Earth Dam.
The initiative was transferred to the Marsabit Water and Sewerage Company to ensure its enduring viability and to supervise the local water consumers.
This endeavor is being executed within the precincts of the Saku sub County, driven by the goal of enhancing the availability of secure potable water and furnishing immediate aid during periods of humanitarian emergencies.
The implementation of fencing serves the dual purpose of safeguarding the Dam against external threats and preventing livestock encroachment, thereby ensuring the purity of water for human consumption.
Encompassing an expanse of 1.8 kilometers, the land perimeter has undergone a significant transformation. The primary task involved erecting an 8-strand barbed wire fence alongside gauge 14 chain links. Additionally, a substantial double door measuring 3 meters in width and 2.4 meters in height was meticulously installed to serve as the primary entrance, supplemented by two smaller 1-meter wide access doors to accommodate human passage.
This reservoir fulfills a multiplicity of needs, catering to domestic, livestock, agricultural irrigation, and commercial requirements.
Authored by:
Corporate Communications
Marsabit Water and Sewerage Company.
