This archive report was first published on 3 January 2022.
On the border of Makueni and Kitui counties, a significant milestone has been achieved in the construction of the multi-billion shilling Thwake Dam. Engineers from China Gezhouba Group Company Limited have diverted a stretch of Athi River into two mega tunnels, providing a substitute waterway for the river before its waters are channelled to rejoin the original course to the Indian Ocean.
According to General Manager Frank Keeh, the tunnels were diverted to allow major excavation works to take place when the river base is dry. The tunnels, measuring 700 metres in length with a diameter of 12 metres, are designed to allow the passage of 11,480 cubic metres of water flow every second.
Speaking to the press after witnessing the closure and diversion of Athi and Thwake rivers to tunnels on Friday, Makueni County Commissioner Maalim Mohammed reiterated the government's commitment to fast-tracking the project. The dam, which is 65 per cent complete, is expected to be commissioned by President Uhuru Kenyatta by June 2022.
As the project continues, the government has announced plans to acquire an additional 60 acres of land at a cost of Sh45 million. This move is aimed at ensuring that the contractor is paid on time to fast-track the construction work at the site.
Published on January 3, 2022
