This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
Located in Migori County, Gogo Falls have become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from far and wide.
With its picturesque views and stunning waterfalls, the site is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of nature.
However, the site also has a functional purpose, serving as a hydro-electric power source for the region.
According to Mr Charles Akuku, a community elder, the falls have helped open up the region, with tourists frequently flocking to the area.
The falls are adjacent to the Thimlich Ohinga archaeological site, a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO.
"We usually request our visitors to visit the falls and the response has been positive," says Thimlich's curator, Mr Kelvin Somoire.
Despite its popularity, the site faces challenges, including a poor road condition that makes it difficult for locals to access the area.
Locals are calling on the national and county governments to improve the road for easier movement.
Mr Akuku notes that the falls were first built by colonialists in the early 1950s to power gold mining in Macalder, Nyatike Constituency in Migori County.
However, the government, through KenGen, later took over the site due to its immense contribution to the country's economy.
Some sugar firms in South Nyanza get their electricity from the falls, and KenGen has started various projects in the region, including supporting bright, needy students and building new roads.
However, the site also faces environmental concerns, with locals expressing worries about the pollution of River Kuja due to effluents from sugar industries.
"This has on several occasions killed thousands of fish in this river," said Mr Akuku.
