Mwache Multi-Purpose Dam Project Update: Significant Progress Made Amid Community Engagement Efforts
The Mwache Multi-Purpose Dam project, a vital initiative for enhancing water supply and irrigation in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale Counties, has reached a notable milestone, with overall project completion at 15.2% and the main dam at 12.7%. This progress was highlighted in a recent meeting led by Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho and attended by a World Bank team.
Key developments include the completion of essential access roads for contractors and the successful diversion work at Kinango Bridge, which is crucial for quarry development. Additionally, construction of a police post and health center is set to begin this month, further supporting local infrastructure.
To address potential environmental impacts, the Mining Department has conducted vibration monitoring within a 500-meter radius of the quarry site, with plans for further assessments extending to 1 kilometer. This initiative aims to ensure safe operations around the project.
Community involvement remains a priority, with plans for a meeting between the Project Management Unit (PMU) and the County Commissioner to evaluate the performance of the Community Liaison Committee. The committee may be reconstituted to enhance fair representation among local stakeholders.
As part of its commitment to local communities, construction of relocated schools will commence this month, with an expected completion date in May 2025. Compensation efforts are ongoing, with 423 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) having been compensated to date. A Livelihood Restoration Plan (LRP) consultant is actively engaging with affected individuals to implement necessary support measures.
In an effort to promote sustainable water management, the establishment of the Water Resource Users Association (WRUA) is underway, with training focused on catchment management. The WRUA has already planted over 39,000 trees to restore the Mwache water catchment area, benefiting more than 10,000 individuals.
Employment initiatives are also in progress, with 801 workers currently employed at the project site. Since September 23, 2024, 239 PAPs have received assistance, and 229 succession grants have been processed.
The State Department remains committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the timely completion of the Mwache Multi-Purpose Dam project, which promises significant benefits for the communities in the region.
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