Solar pumping systems have revolutionized the way communities access water in remote areas without access to electricity. One such system was recently installed in Loritit village in Letea area near Kakuma Town, Turkana County. The solar-powered borehole pumping system provides free water and is capable of supplying 8,000 liters of water per hour.

The solar panels used for the project comprise of 36 units, each with a power output of 345W. With a borehole depth of 25m and a pump setting depth of 21m, the system has an impressive borehole output of 15,000 liters. The pump supplied for the project is a Model S4S 8-50 7.5kw pump end c/w 7.5kw 4” sub-motor capable of delivering 8,000 liters per hour at the tanks.

The project was completed within a span of four working days, and the pastoralist community can now have water for their animals using water at zero power cost from the free solar water from the system. The community in Letea area is grateful for the installation of the solar-powered borehole pumping system as it has made it easier to access water for their livestock, which is their main source of livelihood.

Moreover, the project has had a far-reaching impact on the community, with more than 2,500 people, 500 households, and 5,000 livestock benefiting from the borehole and the water points in both Letea and Ol-tiktiki. Before the installation of the borehole, there was a high likelihood of migration to Uganda due to the scarcity of water in the region. However, the borehole has made it possible for the community to stay in their homes and continue with their daily activities.

The installation of the solar-powered borehole pumping system in Loritit village is a testament to the effectiveness of solar power in addressing water scarcity in remote areas. Solar-powered borehole pumps have proven to be reliable and cost-effective in ensuring access to clean water in areas that lack electricity. The solar-powered borehole pumping system provides a sustainable solution to the water crisis, and the community in Letea area can now benefit from a continuous supply of water without incurring electricity costs.

The project was made possible through the Kakuma Kalobeyei Challenge Fund (KKCF), which seeks to address the challenges facing the refugee and host communities in Turkana County. The KKCF has been instrumental in supporting development projects in the region, including the installation of the solar-powered borehole pumping system in Letea area. The success of the project has inspired other communities in the region to consider similar solutions to address water scarcity.

In conclusion, the installation of the solar-powered borehole pumping system in Letea area is a testament to the potential of solar energy in addressing water scarcity in remote areas. The project has had a far-reaching impact on the community, and it has provided a sustainable solution to the water crisis in the region. The success of the project should encourage other stakeholders to invest in renewable energy solutions to address water scarcity and support sustainable development in the region.