This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
Water Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki has expressed optimism about the completion of the multi-billion Thwake dam project by 2022, despite a 5% delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The project, which is currently at 37% completion, was initially expected to reach this milestone by now. However, the government has managed to cut back on costs by reducing the number of workers from 9000 to 800, which has contributed to the delay.
Speaking during a recent tour of the project, CS Kariuki noted that the consultants have agreed to bring back an additional 400 workers to catch up on the lost time. This move is expected to help the project get back on track.
According to CS Kariuki, the initial number of people who were to cover the first phase of the project were compensated, and the government is now in the process of compensating another 25 persons to acquire additional land.
The CS also warned polluters of rivers, stating that they will face consequences if found culpable. She emphasized the importance of cleaning rivers like Nairobi, which feeds the dam, and warned against careless and illegal waste disposal.
Engineers have already embarked on major works at the site, including erecting a mega tunnel to divert River Athi waters to dry land for excavation works at the main river base. The tunnel, which is currently at a height of 280 meters, will rise to about 700 meters high once complete.
