Ambitious Water Conservation Program to Build 100 Mega Dams Announced

Nyeri, Kenya: In a significant move to combat water scarcity and manage floodwaters, the Kenyan Government has announced plans to construct 100 mega dams and 1,000 smaller water reservoirs.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sanitation, and Irrigation CS Zachary Mwangi, speaking in Nyeri, this initiative aims to efficiently harvest storm waters. Seven of these dams are slated for the Central region, addressing the dry season’s water shortages.

The program, approved by the Cabinet, involves collaboration with donors and international lenders. Mwangi, in his statement to KNA, emphasized the government’s commitment to mitigating rainwater-induced havoc. This announcement comes amidst Kenya grappling with the catastrophic impacts of El Nino rains, which have claimed over 100 lives and displaced 189,000 people.

Counties like Tana River, Garissa, Mandera, and Wajir are among the worst hit, with floods severing connectivity and damaging infrastructure. The Interior PS, Raymond Omollo, chairing the National El Nino Emergency and Disaster Response Command Center, identified several counties, including Isiolo and Kisumu, as vulnerable to flooding. A dedicated information desk at Nyayo House has been established to manage emergencies arising from the ongoing rains.

Mwangi also highlighted collaborative efforts with County Governments to rehabilitate water projects and infrastructure damaged by floods. Specific attention is being given to Garissa, where numerous boreholes and water infrastructure have been submerged.

The event in Nyeri was attended by notable figures, including Nyeri governor Mutahi Kahiga, Tana Water Works Development Agency (TWWDA) officials, and Nyeri County Commissioner Pius Murugu. Murugu noted that while Nyeri had faced minor landslides, the County Committee on Disaster Management remained vigilant against potential emergencies.

This ambitious water project underscores a collective responsibility involving the government, private sector, and development partners, aiming to enhance water security and manage flood risks effectively.