The government has initiated compensation for landowners affected by the Sh20 billion Mwache Dam project following the release of Sh500 million by the National Treasury. This move addresses the concerns of residents from Kinango constituency, where construction was suspended in July due to compensation demands.

Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho confirmed, “This release is for the first batch of compensations, and we will assist residents lacking proper documentation through their leaders.” An additional Sh500 million is expected to be disbursed next week to benefit Mwavumbo and Bofu residents.

The total compensation is projected to reach Sh4.4 billion, with Sh1.6 billion already paid for priority areas. Kimotho revealed, “In January 2025, we plan to release Sh538 million for the lower check-dam, with the remaining balance of Sh1.3 billion allocated for the 2025-26 financial year.”

The Mwache Dam project aims to restore livelihoods and provide water security, benefitting neighboring counties of Mombasa and Kilifi. “Mombasa will receive 186,000 cubic liters of water per day, easing the demand in Kilifi,” Kimotho stated.

Kinango MP Gonzi Rai emphasized the importance of timely compensation, saying, “Residents halted work until their concerns were addressed. All challenges have now been resolved.” However, he noted ongoing disputes between the contractor and employees regarding unpaid salaries.

The dam’s construction, which began in March 2022, is anticipated to be completed by December 2027, impacting approximately 4,000 residents.