The African Development Bank Group has approved €68.39 million in additional funding for Kenya’s Thwake Multipurpose Water Development Program Phase I, providing support for the completion of a major water infrastructure project included in the country’s Vision 2030 development agenda.
The financing package is intended to help bring the project to completion and ensure its long-term operational sustainability. According to the African Development Bank Group, construction of the dam is currently around 90% complete.
The scheme will provide up to 150,000 m3 of potable water per day to 1.3 million people, support irrigation across 40,000 ha and generate 20 MW of hydropower
The new funding consists of a €64.20 million loan from the African Development Bank and €4.2 million from the African Development Fund. The Government of Kenya will contribute an additional €15 million in counterpart financing. The project initially received financing in 2013 through a $96.22 million package from the African Development Fund.
Located in Kenya’s lower eastern region, the Thwake Dam is expected to enhance water availability and climate resilience in the semi-arid counties of Kitui and Makueni. Once operational, the scheme is designed to provide up to 150,000 cubic metres of potable water per day to approximately 1.3 million people, support irrigation across 40,000 hectares and generate 20 MW of hydropower.
The additional resources will be used to implement technical modifications and safety-related works, including increasing the height of the dam, reinforcing its foundations and building two additional saddle dams.
“This financing is about completing a strategic national asset and ensuring it delivers fully on its promise,” said Alex Mubiru, Director General for East Africa at the African Development Bank Group. “With the project already at an advanced stage, our focus is on safeguarding the integrity of the investment, strengthening technical design, and ensuring that communities realise the full benefits in water security, food production, and clean energy.”
The project is also expected to reduce flood risks in the Athi River catchment, improve sanitation services and support local livelihoods. According to the Bank, construction activities have already created employment opportunities for women and young people while contributing to improvements in local schools, healthcare facilities and water infrastructure. Completion of the project is scheduled for September 2028.
