Coastal region water security project to provide 186,000 cubic meters of water daily
YOBESH ONWONG’A -MYGOV
Kwale and Mombasa Counties will benefit from a sustainable and reliable water supply by 2027 upon the completion of the construction of Mwache Dam and its other six sub-components under the Coastal Region Water Security and Climate Resilience Project.
Speaking during an inspection tour, Water Resources Authority (WRA) Board Chairman Donald Murgor noted that the multi-purpose water reservoir, a Vision 2030 flagship project, is co-funded by the World Bank and the Government of Kenya.
“Upon completion, the project will supply an estimated 186,000 cubic meters of water daily to the two counties, significantly improving access to clean water for domestic and industrial purposes,” Murgor said.
He said that the Water Resources Authority (WRA) is one of the project implementers overseeing Mwache watershed subcomponent.
Murgor stated, "The Mwache Watershed Project is a critical investment in the future of Coast regional water security. It is a model for sustainable water resource management, combining environmental conservation with socio-economic development.
“By reducing soil erosion through terracing and promoting alternative livelihoods like poultry, growing of valuable perennial crops, and bee keeping among others, we are setting a strong foundation for long-term resilience and prosperity for communities in the region."
Launched by President William Ruto in April 2023, the project was identified by the Coast Water Supply Master Plan as preferential, viable, sustainable and essential long-term option for water supply to Mombasa and Kwale Counties.
Murgor disclosed that the Mwache Dam project is expected to harness the floodwaters from Mwache River Basin in Kinango Sub-County and help tackle persistent water shortages in the Coast region.
“Besides water supply, the project will help reduce siltation at the Kipevu Port, a critical hub for the East African Community (EAC) region, thereby enhancing the efficiency of maritime operations,” he said.
Additionally, the Chairman said by decreasing water treatment costs, the project will contribute to more affordable water services, ultimately benefiting consumers in the Coast region.
He said that the project is also designed to further boost the Coast region and national development.
“This sub-component aims to address the significant land degradation prevailing in Mwache watershed that threatens to shorten the economic lifespan of the proposed Mwache reservoir and is negatively impacting the livelihood and food security of the local population,” he observed.
Water Resources Authority CEO Mohamed Shurie emphasized the agency's dedication to addressing these challenges: "We recognize the obstacles we face in implementing the Mwache Watershed Project, particularly in terms of environmental degradation and community engagement.”
“However, through concerted efforts and strategic interventions, we are confident that we can overcome these challenges.
“Our focus is on fostering strong community partnerships, enhancing awareness, and implementing effective conservation measures to ensure the project's long-term success and sustainability," he said.
Mr. Shurie further underscored the project’s significance, saying, “This project aligns well with our commitment to ensuring effective management and supporting the sustainable and inclusive development of water resources in Kenya.
The CEO observed that the project is not only a solution to the water scarcity challenges faced by the coastal region but also an opportunity to empower local communities through sustainable land use practices and alternative livelihood programmes.
Shurie assured residents that in collaboration with World Bank and other stakeholders, WRA remains committed to the project’s successful implementation despite several challenges, including unpredictable rainfall patterns and extensive catchment degradation.
The Mwache Dam project is expected to harness the floodwater from the Mwache River watershed which extends to parts of Taita Taveta County and parts of Kilifi County and will help tackle persistent water shortages in the Coast region.
Besides water supply, the Mwache watershed management component will help reduce siltation at the dams and at the Kipevu Port, a critical hub for the East African Community (EAC) region, thereby enhancing the efficiency of maritime operations.
Additionally, by decreasing water treatment costs, the project will contribute to more affordable water services, ultimately benefiting consumers.