State constructs Sh100m Somare Dam to boost water access for 5,000 Moyale residents

Charles Matacho-PCO

The State Department for ASALs and Regional Development is constructing Sh 100 million Somare Dam in efforts geared towards transforming over 5, 000 livelihoods in Moyale's arid and underserved region.

Principal Secretary for the State Department for the ASALs and Regional Development Kello Harsama said that the project will hold an impressive 160 million litres of water upon completion and  is being implemented by the Ewaso Ng’iro North Development Authority (ENNDA) under the stewardship of the State Department for the ASALs.

Harsama hailed this strategic investment under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to empower historically marginalized communities and unlock the development potential of Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).

"A key component of the government’s push to boost rural infrastructure, the Somare Dam is designed to provide sustainable access to water for domestic use, livestock, and small-scale irrigation to the reprieve of residents who have long relied on seasonal rainfalls and distant water sources," he said.

The PS disclosed that the project features a 10-metre high earth embankment dam, a modern intake and spillway system, advanced treatment facilities, and extensive water distribution infrastructure.

"This includes solar-powered and grid-supported submersible pumps, elevated tanks, water kiosks, livestock troughs, and community taps all tailored to serve the unique needs of Moyale’s pastoralist communities," he said.

The dam site , he pointed out, is also being secured with perimeter fencing to ensure sustainability and safety.

Harsama described the dam as a transformative force for borderland communities adding:“This dam is more than a water project, it is a symbol of transformation. It reflects our resolve to take development to the grassroots.

The PS averred that through the BETA framework, "We are not only bringing services closer to the people but restoring dignity and hope in communities that have long been forgotten.”

He emphasized the pivotal role water plays in driving rural economies, enhancing food security, and promoting peace and cohesion in fragile regions like Moyale, which often bear the brunt of drought, climate shocks, and resource-based conflicts.

The inspection, the PS noted, comes at a time when the government is scaling up high-impact projects in ASALS counties, reinforcing its commitment to equitable development, agricultural productivity, and climate resilience.

Harsama dislcoed that the Somare Dam is expected to reduce the burden on women and children who trek long distances in search of water, while also improving livestock health and spurring agricultural activities.

"With implementation already in high gear, the dam is poised to become a flagship symbol of the government's renewed focus on marginalized regions anchoring not just water security, but a future of opportunities, prosperity, and lasting peace in Kenya’s northern frontier," he said.

Also present during the function were Eng Ali Ibrahim Managing Director Ewaso Ng’iro North, Engineer Josiah Mulwa, and Diba Qalicha, Resident Engineer among other top government officials.