The Sh20 billion Mwache Multipurpose Dam project in Kwale County that has been delayed for over six years is finally set to start on November 1st and will take 40 months to be completed.
The delay has mainly been caused by compensation disputes between the locals, leaders, and the government. More than half, marking 77 per cent of the residents have been compensated already by the government and are expected to relocate to create space for the project to begin, the residents have confirmed their readiness to relocate after receiving compensation, the rest of them are still waiting to be compensated by the end of October.
The critical project is expected to generate water to be supplied in Mombasa and Kwale Counties, that have been facing inadequate clean water supply. Water is a very vital part of life and the residents of these counties should start celebrating as the project will see them enjoy clean and surplus water distribution.
At least 16,000acres of land is needed, which means that around 12,000 people will be displaced for the World Bank co-funded project to be implemented. The Fungulani people will have to adjust to the changes that will be brought by the project since the displacement is nothing compared to the joy that awaits them. Kinango Sub-county, where the construction will take place will finally find rescue from drought.
According to National Lands Commissioner (NLC), Kazungu Kambi, the 84 meters high project will produce at least 186 000 cubic meters of water per day for Kwale, Mombasa and Kilifi residents. He expressed his appreciation to Kwale County government for their continued support in every step towards keeping the project afloat. The support brings hope and a successful project can be foreseen.
Initially, there were issues that brought delays as, Mr. Mvurya, Kwale county governor sought Water Cabinet Secretary (CS) Sicily Kariuki’s intervention over the compensation issues arguing that the local government had been side lined in key decision-making processes. After realizing that the project will not only be a boost for agribusiness through irrigation but will also improve the economy of the country, the issues were solved and the project will soon kick off.
The government also launched the construction of  Dam, earlier this year in Kwale County. Upon completion, the dam will relieve at least 40,000 residents who will be supplied by the clean water from the dam.
