Kenyan Government Allocates Funds for Relocation of Kariminu II Dam Vicinity Residents

GATUNDU NORTH SUB COUNTY, Kenya – The Kenyan government has earmarked Sh150 million in the supplementary budget to facilitate the relocation of residents living near the Kariminu II Dam in Gatundu North Sub County. This decision comes as a precautionary measure to protect locals from the risks posed by the now fully capacitated dam.

According to Kenya News Agency, during his recent visit to the dam, 122 residents from the villages of Iruri, Kiriko, Gathanji, and Kanyoni are to be relocated. These individuals are currently living in areas prone to submersion by the dam water, which is spilling safely back into the Kariminu River. Njeru emphasized that while there is no immediate cause for alarm, it is critical for those living downstream and close to the dam to relocate to ensure their safety.

The valuation process for the residents’ properties is being expedited to speed up the compensation and relocation process. The Cabinet Secretary reassured that this exercise would be conducted fairly to avoid the standoffs experienced during the initial stages of the dam’s construction.

Addressing concerns about other mega dams in the region, such as the Sasumua and Ndakaini dams, Njeru assured the public of their stable condition. He did, however, urge residents living near these dams and downstream to remain vigilant.

Furthermore, Njeru mentioned the government’s ongoing interest in constructing more mega dams, citing the proposed Grand Falls dam in Tana River County and the Ndarugu 11 dam in Gatundu North. However, the Ndarugu 11 dam project faces opposition from a section of residents unwilling to relinquish their ancestral land. These residents have already filed a case against the project at the Lands and Environment Court in Thika, arguing the dam’s redundancy given the proximity of the Kariminu II dam.

In response, the Cabinet Secretary stated that negotiations with the landowners are underway. He acknowledged some resistance fueled by incitement but expressed confidence in finding amicable solutions soon.