H.E. Mama Rachel Ruto, E.G.H., returned to UNOA Comprehensive Primary School in Wote, Makueni County—nearly a year after first visiting a dusty field where children learned in harsh conditions. What she witnessed then sparked a commitment to restore dignity, hope, and opportunity for the learners. It is on 30th April, 2026 that she commissioned the Unoa Comprehensive School water project in Wote, Makueni County.
That promise is now fulfilled. Through collaboration between National Water Harvesting & Storage Authority and its parent Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, and the Dawoodi Bohra Community, the school has undergone a remarkable transformation. A water project now provides clean water, classrooms have been improved and made inclusive, and a greener, more nurturing environment is taking shape where dust once prevailed.
Beyond infrastructure, the school community has embraced change. Learners and teachers have established kitchen gardens, promoting nutrition, sustainability, and innovation both at school and at home. This is not just development; it is a culture shift driven by partnership and purpose.
Speaking during the event, the First Lady reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring every child learns in dignity and has equal opportunity to succeed. She also encouraged parents, leaders, and partners to sustain and replicate this model across the country. In a symbolic gesture to support learners and a step towards a brighter future. UNOA stands today as a powerful example of what is possible when leadership, community, and compassion come together.
Implemented by the National Water Harvesting & Storage Authority, Unoa Comprehensive school water project provides reliable and sustainable water source for the school community so as to improve sanitation, support agricultural activities within the school and improve the community’s socio-economic development.
The project has the following water infrastructure components; community water kiosk, water pipeline that suppliers water to various points like the kitchen, hand-washing points and the dormitories. It also consists of the water tank tower with a 50,000 litre steel tank and solar panel structure that pumps water to the tank. The project supports the Voice of Children Initiative; a platform dedicated to amplifying the perspectives, experiences, and aspirations of children across Kenya. It is grounded in the belief that children are not just beneficiaries of development—but active participants whose voices matter in shaping policies, programs, and communities.
Core Pillars of the Voice of Children Initiative are:
- Provision- Ensuring children have access to essential needs such as education, nutrition, healthcare, and safe environments—while allowing them to express how these services can better serve them.
2. Protection: Creating safe spaces where children can speak freely about challenges such as violence, neglect, or exploitation—and ensuring their voices inform interventions and policy responses.
3. Participation: Empowering children to actively engage in decision-making processes at school, community, and national levels—giving them a seat at the table.
Present was the CS for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage Ms. Hanna Cheptumo, Principal Secretary for Water and Sanitation Mr. Julius Korir, other Principal Secretaries, NWHSA’s Board of Directors, Ag. CEO Eng. Julius Mugun, County Officials, the County Commissioner, the local administration, local leaders, the clergy, Unoa School administration, teachers, learners and Unoa Community
By Joyce Jepkemboi
Manager, Corporate Communication