Nairobi: The National Government, through the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), has committed Sh10 million to desilt the Kosowe Earth Dam in Nzaui Subcounty. The initiative aims to boost the dam’s water capacity to 30,000 cubic meters, according to Makueni County Drought Coordinator Alice Munyao.
According to Kenya News Agency, Munyao announced this development during a County Steering Group meeting held at the County Commissioner’s Boardroom. She emphasized that the desilting project is expected to be completed within three months, before the anticipated short rains in October. The improved water capacity is projected to benefit over 3,000 households, addressing the long-standing issue of water scarcity in the region.
Munyao noted that the desilting process commenced on July 16th and is scheduled to conclude by early October. The meeting, chaired by Deputy County Commissioner Peter Kimani, did not disclose the name of the contractor responsible for the project.
In addition to the dam project, Munyao announced that Sh3 million would be allocated to procure 300 Gala Goats. These goats are intended to benefit 32 Nzakika Community groups by enhancing goat productivity and household resilience in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) area. The initiative aims to improve goat genetics, reduce inbreeding, and mitigate climate stress.
The project, implemented by the Wee Community Based Organization in collaboration with NDMA and County Livestock Services, seeks to boost growth rates, milk production, and market value while maintaining adaptability to harsh conditions. Expected outcomes include increased household incomes, improved nutrition and food security, and stronger community resilience through sustainable breeding schemes and skills transfer.
During the meeting, members reviewed the performance of the March, April, and May rains, which arrived earlier and were distributed fairly. However, reduced rainfall impacted crop production. A Technical Committee was formed to assess the effects of seasonal rains and other factors on food and nutrition security. Their findings will be presented to the County Steering Group on July 24, 2026.
