Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy Fatuma Achani have held talks with World Bank representatives and other stakeholders on the progress of the multi-billion Mwache Dam project.

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The discussions held at the governor’s office in Kwale mainly focused on how various stakeholders are getting ready in the project implementation process.

Governor Mvurya assured the World Bank that Kwale County Government is fully supporting the Ksh14.8 billion project aimed at changing the livelihoods of Kwale County residents and the neighbouring Mombasa County.

"I urge all stakeholders involved to work together in the realisation of Mwache Dam project, through exchange of ideas, experiences and expertise," Mvurya said on Wednesday.

The County boss also assured that the County Government of Kwale is working closely with the national government in ensuring that issues of compensation and relocation of families affected by the project are dealt with accordingly before the project commences.

"We're serious on the Mwache Project. We want a clear resettlement and compensation plans that will benefit our people. As a county government we're keen to ensure all this is achieved by working with all stakeholders."

Related: Sh14 bln Mwache dam project to displace over 3,000 families

The multi-billion Mwache Dam project is funded by World Bank through the national government.

In July 2018, officer in charge of the project management Simon Mwangi said construction of the project would kick-off early 2019.

"Once the project is completed, it will end perennial water shortage in both Mombasa and Kwale counties by pumping 196,000 litres of water daily," he disclosed, saying several families have been affected by the multi-billion water project.

He said compensation plans were already underway, targeting all the over 3,000 affected families before the project commences.

According to the National Lands Commission (NLC) chairman Muhamad Swazuri, “The project will require 1,600 acres of land and will involve displacement of approximately 4,250 persons whose assets and livelihoods may be affected, as well as access to natural or economic resources as a result of activities under the Mwache dam project."

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