State constructs Sh250m dam to end cross-border water feuds

The construction of the Sh250 million Kases Dam in Kiwawa Ward to serve cross-border communities in Pokot has commenced.

The dam is one of the four being constructed for pastoralist communities to cement peace along border areas. It is similar to Kobebe Dam in Moroto, Uganda, which has become a haven for peace in Karamoja region.

Central Rift Valley Works Development Agency managing director Hoseah Wendot said the project will be completed in nine months.

Wendot said that they have enough manpower to complete the work in the stipulated time.

He urged community members to give the workers ample time to complete the work.

“Access to water for livestock is a big problem in this region and that is why we want to complete it on time to help end disputes during dry periods,” he said.

President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni signed a deal to end hostilities among the three neighbouring communities early this year.

The agreement entailed various projects, including the dams to strengthen peace in the area. 

West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo thanked the two governments for the deal, saying it will help reduce tensions.

“This area has been peaceful for many years and to cement this peace, such projects will help in ending conflicts along this border,” he said.

He said the dam will help in transforming the region from a conflict zone to an area of progress and development

 “On Kenyan the Kenyan side we have prioritised mostly water projects that will be set up in Turkana and here since these areas don’t have enough water and pastoralists mostly conflict over water and pastures,” he said.

Lonyangapuo also called on other investors to come and invest in the region since the area is peaceful.

“There are no cases of cattle rustling that are being reported in our region please come and help us in developing this region,” he said.