Dj Vnyash
The government has begun compensating residents whose land was acquired for the Sh20 billion Mwache Dam project, following the National Treasury’s release of Sh500 million. The dam’s construction had been halted in July due to compensation demands from residents in Kinango constituency, Kwale County.
According to Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho, the released Sh500 million will cover the first batch of compensations. Residents lacking proper documentation will receive assistance from local leaders to resolve their issues. Additionally, another Sh500 million is expected to be released next week for Mwavumbo and Bofu residents.
The total compensation amount is Sh4.4 billion, with Sh1.6 billion already paid for priority area one. Another Sh538 million will be disbursed in January 2025 for the completion of the lower check-dam, with the remaining Sh1.3 billion allocated for the 2025-26 financial year.
Kimotho emphasized that the project aims to restore the livelihoods of affected individuals and has received support from the World Bank, which has allocated Sh1.9 billion. Out of this, Sh500 million will be used for community projects involving local elders.
A consultant has been hired to develop a detailed plan on how other areas will benefit within three months. Unfortunately, three schools will be affected by the project.
The Mwache Dam project, located in Kwale County, will also benefit neighboring Mombasa and Kilifi counties. Mombasa is set to receive 186,000 cubic liters of water daily, which will reduce Kilifi’s water needs.
Kinango MP Gonzi Rai reported that construction work had stopped due to compensation disputes but was resolved after discussions with the assembly, commission, ministry, and Treasury. The only current issue is a dispute between the contractor and employees over unpaid July salaries.
The dam, which began construction in March last year, is expected to be completed by December 2027.
