Resumption of Itare Dam Construction to Alleviate Water Scarcity in Nakuru

Nakuru, Kenya – The National Assembly Committee on Water, Blue Economy, Sanitation, and Irrigation has affirmed the imminent recommencement of the Itare Dam construction project in Kuresoi North, aimed at addressing the chronic water shortages in Nakuru County.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Marakwet East Member of Parliament and leader of the committee, the project, which is currently 11% complete, is expected to resume in the next three to four months. “Following the president’s engagement with the Italian government, who are funding this project, we are confident that the construction will restart soon. We are here to discuss issues related to way-leaves and land compensation, which the government is committed to resolving,” stated Kangogo during the committee’s visit to the Itare Dam site.

The committee emphasized the significance of the dam to the residents of Nakuru and its surrounding areas, expressing optimism that the project will proceed smoothly once it resumes. “We are exploring ways to support the contractor through the supplementary budget, specifically for compensation and way-leaves, while the contractor focuses on the dam and the main trunk. The community will also play a role in supporting conservation efforts to ensure sustained water flow,” Kangogo explained.

The contractor is tasked with working on the main trunk, while the government handles water reticulation through last mile connectivity to homes and businesses in the county. This is expected to meet the demand for 80,000 cubic metres of water, with surplus expected to extend to Naivasha.

David Kones, Nakuru Deputy Governor, expressed that the completion of the Itare Dam project is crucial for residents of Kuresoi, Molo, and Njoro sub-counties, as well as Nakuru City. “Water is a critical resource for agriculture, industries, schools, and domestic use in Nakuru County. This project is a game changer, and we encourage residents to use water sustainably,” Kones said.

The project is estimated to cost the government Sh28 billion upon completion. The Italian firm CMC Di Ravenna is expected to resume work, bringing the dam to its full capacity of holding 27 million cubic metres of water and producing 100,000 cubic metres of water per day. This will benefit residents of Kuresoi North and South, Molo, Njoro Sub-counties, and Nakuru City.

Local leaders in Nakuru continue to advocate for the construction of the Itare Dam, emphasizing the need for local involvement in both the construction and conservation efforts.