Nairobi: The National Treasury and the African Development Bank (AfDB) are on the verge of finalizing an agreement for additional funding of Sh 9.6 billion to complete phase 1 of the Thwake Multi-Purpose Dam at the confluence of Athi and Thwake Rivers at the border of Makueni and Kitui Counties. The dam is expected to significantly impact the Lower Eastern Region, providing benefits to over 1.2 million people and supplying water to Konza City upon completion.
According to Kenya News Agency, the announcement was made during a high-level inspection tour of the dam by top officials from the National Treasury, AfDB, and the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation. The officials reiterated their commitment to this critical infrastructure project. Mtchera Chirwa, Director of the AfDB Water and Sanitation Department, stated that the additional financing for the first phase is under consideration, with documentation expected to be finalized in the coming weeks for presentation to the AfDB Board for approval.
Chirwa emphasized that Thwake Dam symbolizes Kenya's ambition to harness resources for sustainable development, offering hope for a brighter future for thousands of residents in the Lower Eastern Region. He highlighted the dam's potential to improve water security, agricultural productivity, and clean energy generation, thereby delivering transformative change.
Thwake Dam is currently 94.2 percent complete and is a cornerstone of Kenya's development agenda. Michael Kahiti, AfDB Focal Point at the National Treasury, reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring the local community benefits from water access and economic opportunities through irrigation and other activities.
Water Secretary Eng. Samuel Alima outlined three critical remaining tasks: constructing a bridge over the embankment, completing the concrete fence, and installing hydro mechanical equipment. Alima mentioned plans to begin water impoundment during the long rainy season from April to June next year, marking a significant milestone in domestic water supply, irrigation, and hydropower generation.
The project has encountered challenges such as a weak foundation, delays due to embankment settling, disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic, and supply chain issues related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite these setbacks, Alima noted that plans for downstream works, including water supply systems, irrigation networks, and power generation, are progressing, promising long-term regional benefits.
The inspection tour, attended by representatives from the contractor CGGC, supervising consultant SMEC, and the Water Ministry, showcased a collaborative effort to advance the project. Notable attendees included AfDB Regional Sector Manager Mecuria Assefaw, Principal Water and Sanitation Engineer Lazarus Phiri, and Nancy Ogal, Senior Water and Sanitation Task Manager.