Nairobi: The Coast Development Authority (CDA) has officially commissioned the newly rehabilitated Mwache Dam in Mwanda, Taita Taveta County. This project, valued at Sh20 million, was completed four months ahead of schedule and is poised to significantly improve water access for more than 300 local households.

According to Kenya News Agency, Mzee Mwinyi Mzee, CDA Board Chairman, expressed his gratitude to President William Ruto for supporting the organisation with the necessary funding. He also extended thanks to the Ministry of ASALs and Regional Development, led by Cabinet Secretary Beatrice Askul and Principal Secretary Kello Harsama. Mzee Mwinyi highlighted the collaboration between the board, the contractor, and local residents, which was instrumental in the timely completion of the project.

The Chairman pointed out that while three water kiosks have been constructed, the dam ensures a continuous daily water supply. However, he acknowledged the need for additional funding to expand access downstream and implement similar projects in Mwanda, in line with the government's Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Dr. Mwana Siti Bendera, CDA Acting Managing Director, stated that the government-funded de-siltation project has increased the dam's capacity to 10,000 cubic metres. She emphasized that the water will serve multiple purposes, including household use, animal watering, irrigation, and supplying neighboring schools and government offices. Dr. Bendera praised the project team for completing the work ahead of the June 2026 deadline, finishing it in under four months.

Wundanyi MP Daniel Mwashako applauded CDA for its efforts and assured continued support from the Coast Parliamentary Group. He stressed the importance of CDA's role in regional development and called for increased government funding to enable similar projects across the region. Mwashako also advocated for water access for residents of Njavuli sub-location, suggesting the use of solar heaters and generators to extend the supply.

The MP revealed that the project currently benefits more than 300 households, with plans to expand coverage to between 600 and 800 additional households with further funding. He urged CDA to conduct a feasibility study to explore extending the water supply to Njavuli sub-location and Marungu.