The National Treasury and the African Development Bank (AfDB) are in the final stages of sealing a Sh9.6 billion funding deal to complete Phase 1 of the Thwake Multi-Purpose Dam, a transformative infrastructure project straddling Makueni and Kitui Counties.
Currently at 94.2% completion, the dam is expected to benefit over 1.2 million people, supplying water to surrounding counties and the tech-driven Konza City, while also enabling irrigation and future hydropower production.
During a high-level inspection on Friday, AfDB and government officials reaffirmed their commitment to fast-tracking completion.
“We aim to finalize the additional financing in the coming weeks for board approval,” said Mtchera Chirwa, AfDB’s Director of Water and Sanitation.
Chirwa hailed the dam as a “lifeline” for Kenya’s Lower Eastern region. “It’s more than concrete. It’s about food, power, jobs, and hope.”
Water Secretary Eng. Samuel Alima outlined the three key tasks left before completion: building a bridge over the dam embankment, installing hydromechanical equipment, and completing a security fence.
“If all goes as planned, we will begin impounding water during the April-June 2026 rains,” said Alima, adding that once operational, the dam will generate 20MW of clean energy and revolutionize irrigation and water supply in arid counties.
The project has weathered major delays—COVID-19, a weak foundation, and supply chain disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine war—but stakeholders say it’s finally on track.
National Treasury’s Michael Kahiti reiterated that the goal is not just infrastructure but local economic transformation: “This is about creating livelihoods.”
The tour was attended by AfDB, Treasury, the Ministry of Water, contractor CGGC, and consultant SMEC.
