This archive report was first published on 18 July 2020.
On July 17, 2020, the National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority launched a Sh120 million dyke project along River Awach Tende in Rangwe to control perennial flooding that has affected more than 400 families in the area.
The project, christened Kodhoch Nyangweso Flood Control Project, aims to construct a 2.4km dyke on parts of the river prone to water spillage, which leads to flooding.
Speaking during the launch, Water and Irrigation CAS Andrew Tuimur said the project will take six months to complete and will see residents benefiting from it by December.
“Our objective is to end floods which have affected residents of this area for long. We are going to ensure residents start benefiting from this project in December,” said Tuimur.
Rangwe MP Lilian Gogo said the project will enhance crop production in the area, which has been hindered by perennial floods.
“Farmers have been growing crops in the area but the main obstacle has been flooding which erodes and destroy their crops. Controlling the floods will boost their morale in crop production,” Gogo said.
The project is a result of the Handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga, according to Rangwe MP Lilian Gogo.
Area residents expressed optimism that the project will transform their lives and end their reliance on relief food during rainy seasons.
