The construction of the KSh 29.3 billion Mwache Multipurpose Dam in Kwale County is steadily progressing, with the government promising to fast-track its completion despite past challenges.
Mwache Dam, situated in Fulugani village, approximately 22 kilometers from Mombasa, is designed to be a long-term solution to water scarcity in Mombasa and Kwale counties.
Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho, who toured the site alongside World Bank Global Water Practice Director Saroj Kumar Jha, confirmed that the overall project is now 28% complete. He noted that the main dam structure has reached 16%, with significant progress in floor concreting.
“The lower part of the dam, where concreting is underway, is moving well, and we expect it to be complete by September this year. The entire project remains on track for completion within the next 18 months,” said Kimotho.
The dam, which will stand at 84 meters tall, will have a vast catchment area of 2,250 square kilometers and a reservoir capacity of approximately 118 million cubic meters.
The project, launched in March 2023, has faced setbacks, particularly delays in land compensation. However, Kimotho assured that the government is addressing these issues, with an additional KSh 600 million set to be paid to affected landowners in the coming months.
“The total budget for land compensation is KSh 4.6 billion. So far, we have settled KSh 2.6 billion, and another KSh 600 million will be disbursed soon. The remaining KSh 1.4 billion will be allocated in the next financial year,” he stated.
Despite these hurdles, work on the dam has gained momentum, with authorities and contractors determined to stick to the planned timeline. Kimotho reiterated that the project is crucial for enhancing water security and boosting agricultural productivity in the coastal region.
“This project is not just about water supply; it’s about securing livelihoods. We are integrating irrigation through the Farmer-Led Irrigation Development (FLID) program, where water pans will be used for both tree planting and crop irrigation,” he explained.
On his part, Saroj Kumar Jha emphasized that the project aligns with the World Bank’s broader efforts to combat climate change.
“This dam will help communities store water during rainy seasons for use in dry periods, mitigating both drought and flooding risks. It is a major step in strengthening climate resilience in this region,” he noted.
Once completed, it will supply 186,000 cubic meters of clean water daily and provide irrigation for over 1,000 acres, directly benefiting more than 2,000 farmers.
Written By: Nuru Salim.
