Community involvement urged in Mwache Dam project after complaints of delayed compensation

Communities affected by the Mwache Dam Project in Kwale County are being urged to establish representative committees to ensure their interests are considered in official discussions about the upcoming projects.

The call for community involvement follows complaints raised by residents regarding the failure to reconstruct three relocated schools according to their original specifications.

The reconstruction of the affected schools, Fulugani Primary, Nunguni Primary, and Mwache Bridge Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE), has stalled since July.

This delay comes amid demands from the local community in Kinango Constituency for compensation and livelihood restoration funds promised by the government.

Bendaro Ndegwa, a resident of Kasemeni Ward, expressed frustration over the delayed funds. "We were promised support to restore our livelihoods after relocation, but nothing has been forthcoming. The community feels left out of the discussions, and our voices must be heard,” he said.

Jane Mwarania, a teacher at one of the affected schools, called for a more inclusive process. "We need to be actively involved in decision-making, especially when it concerns the future of our children’s education. The government must fulfil its promises and adhere to the community’s needs,” she said.

Ali Juma, a youth leader echoed these sentiments, urging for the inclusion of young people in discussions. "Young people have been sidelined for too long. We have skills and ideas that can benefit the community if given a chance to contribute,” he argued

Meanwhile, Kinango Member of Parliament Gonzi Rai acknowledged the residents' grievances, stating that construction was halted after they demanded compensation. "Once the issue was brought to the assembly, the commission, ministry, and treasury agreed to address it promptly," he explained.

The Mwache Dam, a significant project located across the Mwache River at Fulugani village, is expected to cost approximately Sh4.4 billion for land acquisition, impacting over 4,000 Project Affected Persons (PAPs).

Construction of the Mwache lower check dam is in progress in Kinango Sub-County, Kwale. (Farhiya Hussein)

Construction began in March 2023 and is scheduled for completion by December 2027.

Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary, Eng. Eric Mugaa, announced that the project has resumed and that community participation will be integral to its progress. "We encourage communities to form committees that will represent their interests in decision-making processes, particularly regarding the design of new facilities and the reconstruction of affected schools," he said.

He reassured the public that the government remains committed to addressing their concerns, with Sh500 million already released by the National Treasury to begin compensating the affected individuals.

"We aim to ensure everyone is compensated fairly, but we need your cooperation to keep the project on schedule," he emphasised.

The CS urged the community to work harmoniously with contractors to avoid further delays. "Every delay means a loss of taxpayer money. If there are issues, bring them to my office. I am here to listen and act," he added.

Further, he highlighted the importance of employing local people, stating that 70 per cent of job opportunities at the construction site will be allocated to locals to ensure they benefit directly from the project. "We have advocated for local employment, so please seize this opportunity and prove yourselves," he urged.

The Mwache Dam project is expected to be a critical water supply source and flood control measure for the coastal region, aiming to improve livelihoods and foster development in Kwale County. However, it remains to be seen how effectively the government and local communities will collaborate to ensure its success.