The water shortage in Mwingi town has forced residents to buy water from traders, some of whom fetch the commodity from streams through which sewage passes.
The traders are making a killing charging exorbitant prices. Residents said there is no water in any of the eight kiosks in Mwingi. Yesterday, trader Kithuku Kimanzi said he draws water from River Tyaa, a kilometre away from Mwingi. He said some traders fetch water from streams near the Mwingi mortuary.
“Its unfortunate residents buy water whose source they don’t know. Before you buy water from a stranger, ask him to drink it so you know it is safe,” Kimanzi said.
Some residents have complained the water sold has a bad smell and cannot be used for cooking.