Water security is a key issue given that Kenyan people and economy are highly vulnerable to erratic climatic patterns and limited water availability due to their reliance on key sectors (agriculture, tourism, hydro-energy, etc.) that depend on rainfall and water availability.
In an effort to reduce water shortage, increase food security and reduce health risks posed by water-borne and sanitation-related diseases, Coast Development Authority in partnership with Water Resource Authority, Kwale County and Kenya Forest Services has started the implementation of the Mwache Dam Project in Kinango, Kwale County under the Kenya Water Security and Climate Resilience Program. An estimate of 626,200 people will directly benefit from this project, and will be provided with improved water sources, sanitation facilities, improved hygiene and sanitation practices and also benefit from the 100-hectare irrigation demonstration pilot.
The World Bank funded project will benefit not only the direct project target population but also the wider population of the coastal region through the economic impacts that the project’s implementation will catalyse. Construction of the 84m high dam and its related facilities will enhance water supply in the entire coastal region by allowing the reallocation of existing water supplies and the creation of additional water supplies. The availability of a reliable water supply will have direct and indirect effects on almost all sectors of the coastal region’s economy, including agriculture, tourism, education, health, industry, etc.
This project aims to improve sustainability of the Mwache catchment at the same time integrate conservation activities with the needs of local communities to develop sustainable economic activities. This will entail addressing ecosystem degradation at the watershed level which supports an integrated, participative approach to water resources management. This will involve introduction of sustainable livestock, agriculture, forestry and land management practices; as well as integrating conservation activities.
A series of community sensitization workshops have been carried out to raise the levels of awareness of the community and increase their participation in the project. When completed, the project is expected to provide 138 million CM3 water for domestic, irrigation and livestock use.
The agricultural sectors (crops, livestock, forestry, fisheries) will transform local communities’ lives and enable them feed a growing population and provide the basis for economic growth and poverty reduction. This transformation will be accomplished without hindering the natural resource base.
