Thwake Dam Completion Delayed to October 2024 Due to Material Costs and COVID-19

MAKUENI – The completion of the first phase of the Thwake Multipurpose Dam, located at the confluence of the Athi River and Thwake River, has been postponed to October 2024. Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Zacharia Njeru announced the delay during a recent inspection tour of the dam, attributing the schedule adjustment to the rising cost of materials driven by the appreciation of the dollar and setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic encountered in 2019.

According to Kenya News Agency, despite these challenges, the government remains satisfied with the progress of the dam’s construction, which currently stands at 89 percent completion and adheres to the required specifications. He emphasized the importance of not rushing the process to avoid compromising the quality of the overall project. The Cabinet Secretary, accompanied by Permanent Secretary Julius Korir, revealed that the construction has so far cost approximately Sh22 billion.

Njeru further explained that the completion of the first phase is essential before the government can proceed with the subsequent phases, which include hydropower generation, water distribution, and irrigation. He also addressed an ongoing court case between the project’s main contractor, China Ghezhouber Construction Company, and one of its subcontractors, assuring that it would not affect the government’s dedication to delivering the dam to the residents of Makueni.

Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili expressed optimism about the dam’s potential impact on the region, describing it as a transformative project for Makueni residents. She highlighted that upon completion, the dam would provide water for domestic use and irrigation, significantly contributing to the fight against food insecurity in the area.