Thwake Dam is 94.2 per cent complete, with the government targeting April 2027 for water impoundment as residents seek a review of alleged construction-related damage claims.
Principal Secretary for Water and Sanitation Julius Korir told the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation that construction had reached 94.2 per cent.
The dam is being built at the confluence of the Athi and Thwake rivers along the Makueni-Kitui border. It is designed to provide water for domestic use, irrigation and electricity generation.
Martin Kimeu, a resident of Wote, said the project would improve access to water for farming in the region.
“Ukambani is fertile. Water has been the biggest impediment to the realization of our agricultural potential. Thwake Dam water is the clear solution to this,” he said.
Kimeu also defended the compensation process, saying he had followed the project since its inception and believed the exercise had been conducted properly.
Jacob Mwanzia, a resident of Madangi Village, said households in his area had been assessed and compensated. He argued that outstanding complaints should be addressed without delaying the project.
Mariam Mwikali, another resident, said assessments had been conducted on affected properties and residents given an opportunity to raise concerns.
However, some households have complained that construction-related blasting damaged their homes.
