Kenya will in September start the construction of Koru-Soin multipurpose dam, a multi-billion project in Kisumu to help reduce flooding problem on lower reaches of River Nyando.
Flooding on lower Kano plains displaces about 5,000 people annually.
The multipurpose dam will also supply water for domestic, irrigation and hydropower generation, according to the client -National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority(NWHSA).
NWHSA is currently evaluating tenders on the project with the aim of identifying the right bidder for the Sh25 billion Koru-Soin multipurpose dam.
National Environment Management Authority has granted interim approval for the project.
The dam is proposed to be a zoned rockfill dam with an impermeable clay core and water storage capacity of 93.7Million cubic metres.
It will also provide 72,000m3/day of water for domestic and institutional use and generate 2.5MW hydropower. The project is being funded by the Government of Kenya.
The government of Kenya will spend about Sh2 billion to compensate the landowners.
Already, the national treasury has allocated Kshs. 5 billion to commence the construction with another 15 billion awaiting National Treasury’s approval in the Supplementary Budget come October, 2020. At least 2 billion shillings will go towards compensation of affected persons with the remaining 18 billion going towards dam and water supply components.
The Koru-Soin multipurpose dam is expected to be completed within 5 years.
The dam will be constructed on approximately 2,500 acres of land affecting a total of 316 parcels; 110 parcels in Kericho County and 206 parcels in Kisumu County.
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