This archive report was first published on 18 November 2019.
Located in Nyaribari Chache constituency, Kisii County, Nyakwana Waterfall, affectionately known as 'Ekeera' by residents, is a breathtaking natural wonder with a rich history.
On a typical day, the waterfall is a hub of activity, with lovebirds strolling hand in hand, whispering sweet nothings to each other, while residents come equipped with fishing rods to catch the day's bounty.
The Nyakwana River is large and tranquil, making it an ideal spot for teenage boys and girls to swim and enjoy the sun.
According to Mr. Ascar Barongo, a 73-year-old resident of Nyakwana village, the waterfall was once a popular destination for white visitors, who would come to swim, canoe, camp, and socialize in the pre-independence era.
'It was during the pre-independence period that wazungu used to visit here to swim and bask in the sun,' Mr. Barongo recalls in an interview with Nation.
However, this trend eventually came to an end, leaving the waterfall to the residents. Initially, the land adjacent to 'Ekeera' was protected and served as a settlement scheme, courtesy of a local tea company in Matunwa.
On site are remnants of cemented water tanks, which have since become obsolete. Unfortunately, the development did not benefit the residents for long, as the taps ran dry after the Nyakwana scheme was abandoned.
Residents attribute the significant reduction in water levels at the waterfall to the eucalyptus trees planted along the riverbed.
'Many residents here used to be tea farmers, but dwindling bonuses pushed us to plant eucalyptus trees for sale. However, this has had a negative effect as water levels have drastically gone down,' says Mr. Fred Nyagaka, a resident.
During the dry season, the waterfall would often 'swallow' people, especially teenagers who ventured into the water for a swim.
Efforts to establish a hydroelectric power plant at Nyakwana by politician Simeon Nyachae did not materialize, but Governor James Ongwae is currently exploring ways to install a hydroelectric power plant.
Lake Victoria South Water Services Board has initiated water projects to improve the availability of the resource, including the rehabilitation and expansion of Kisii water supply works, which incorporates the construction of Bonyunyu Dam.
According to Ms. Skitter Ocharo, the county executive for water, energy, and natural resources, 'Plans to generate power at Nyakwana waterfall are already in progress.'
