The boundary dispute between the Taita Taveta and Kwale counties at Mackinnon Road Town threatens to disrupt the border town's water supply.
Taita Taveta Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo revealed that the county's water agency, Tavevo Water and Sewerage Company has been experiencing animosity reception in the town, which may push them to halt services to the area.
Speaking during the Tavevo annual general meeting in Voi on Friday, Kilalo sought the intervention of the national government in solving the simmering boundary dispute.
"The dispute has negatively affected development in the area. Tavevo officials are facing difficulties in operating there," she said.
She revealed that their Kwale counterparts have already started plans to put up water supply infrastructure in the disputed area.
Kilalo further said the county is ready for any dialogue meant to end the protracted dispute, noting that the matter should be put to an end.
"We are ready for any intervention that can bring a lasting solution. People living at the border town have a right to enjoy the fruits of devolution," she added.
The long-running boundary disputes between the two devolved units has often raised tensions with counter-accusations of trespass.
Kwale county claims that its boundary with Taita Taveta is at Miasenyi a few Kilometers from Mackinnon Road town, while the latter holds that her boundaries extend to Landi ya Mwembeni, near Taru town.
Since the inception of devolution, Taita Taveta has not collected revenue in Mackinnon Township owing to the dispute.
Their attempt has been met with resistance from the Kwale side who accuse them of trespass.
The county is also at loggerheads with Makueni county over ownership of Mtito Andei Town.
The deputy governor, however, assured residents that the water company will strive to ensure that water is supplied in the area under dispute.
"The company will strive to supply water in the area amid the resistance even as we seek for a solution. We have a competent team to execute the mandate," Kilalo said.
Meanwhile, the Tavevo company has appointed Rose Mbiko as the new managing director.
Mbiko takes over from Richard Kibengo who has been serving in acting capacity.
