A groundbreaking initiative is underway to transform the landscape of Eastern Kenya, with the proposed construction of the High Grand Falls dam in Tana River County.
The project, which promises to deliver significant benefits in terms of power generation, irrigation, flood control, and potable water supply, has garnered widespread support from key stakeholders.
A consultative breakfast meeting, chaired by Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho on Friday, brought together representatives from the State Department for Irrigation, State Department for Water, State Department for Energy, and the GBM Consortium.
The aim was to foster dialogue and ensure the successful implementation of this ambitious undertaking.
Attending the meeting were officials from the National Irrigation Authority (NIA), led by CEO Eng. Charles Muasya, MBS, as well as representatives from the GBM Consortium, headed by Director Michael Shorts.
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Also present were officials from the State Department for Irrigation, Water & Sanitation, Energy, Kenya Transmission Company (Ketraco), and Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).
The High Grand Falls dam, upon completion, will boast a massive water reservoir with a capacity of 5,600 million cubic meters.
This strategic water resource will be a boon to the people of Embu, Kitui, and Tharaka Nithi counties, providing much-needed support for agriculture, industry, and domestic use.
One of the most remarkable features of the dam will be its versatility.
It will be designed to serve multiple purposes, including power generation, irrigation development, flood management, and portable water supply.
This comprehensive approach will ensure that the project maximises its benefits to the region.
The dam is expected to irrigate approximately 400,000 acres of land, utilising approximately 10 million cubic meters of water annually.
In addition, it is anticipated to generate up to 1,000 megawatts of hydropower, providing a significant boost to Kenya's energy supply.
The High Grand Falls dam project represents a major step forward in Kenya's development.
By harnessing the power of the Tana River, the government aims to improve the lives of millions of people and drive economic growth in Eastern Kenya.