Firm insists Sh4.5 billion Bunyunyu Dam is on course

A Sh4.5 billion dam that is being constructed in the county will go on as planned despite the current graft claims engulfing similar projects in Rift Valley.

Gusii Water and Sanitation Company Chief Executive officer Osborn Nanga yesterday said the Bonyunyu Dam project was on course.

“Feasibility studies have been done and we expect the project to start soon. This is a grant and not a loan,” said Mr Nanga.

“We don’t expect anybody to raise queries. Once complete, the project will benefit more than two million people.”

Former Kitutu Masaba MP Timothy Bosire, who has been vocal about his support for project, called on Kisii and Nyamira governors to declare their stand.

“This is their project and as leaders in the region, they should come out and explain to the locals the progress of the project,” said Mr Bosire.

Compensation claims

During his last visit to Kisii last month, President Uhuru Kenyatta called on local leaders to sensitise their people on the need for development projects, especially where compensation claims are concerned.

Uhuru said the Government was spending huge sums of money on compensation.

“It doesn’t make sense that compensation for these projects is bigger than their actual value. Let’s be realistic and allow Government projects to proceed as required,” President Kenyatta said.

Locals had initially resisted construction of the dam which will serve Nyamira and Kisii counties. But construction began after their compensation fears were addressed by various government agencies, especially the Lake Victoria South Water Services Board.

The dam is a project funded by the Kenyan government, as well as the State of Netherlands. It will help generate 1.2MW of electricity.