The road to implementation of the proposed multibillion-keben dam project in Nandi Hills, expected to ease the water shortage in Nandi County, has begun, as evidenced by the public participation exercise held at Ol’lessos National Polytechnic.

The Keben Dam water supply project, which is located along the Mogobich River in Nandi East Sub County, was initially commissioned in the year 2016 but stalled in 2019 before it was revived in mid-2026 under a redesigned and expanded scope.

This mega water venture, managed by the Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency (LVNWWDA), aims at promoting regional health, economic growth and sanitation by solving chronic water shortages within Nandi County.

Nandi Hills MP Bernard Kitur shaking hands with LVNWWDA director Abraham Cheruiyot, flanked by the CEO Joel Wamalwa, during the public participation exercise on the proposed multibillion-keben Dam water project.

It is projected to serve 200,000 households as well as supply gravity-fed drinking water to Kapsabet and Nandi Hills towns, among other areas.

Speaking during a public participation forum at Ol’lessos National Polytechnic, Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency (LVNWWDA) CEO Joel Wamalwa affirmed that their agency is committed to ensuring that the Keben water project is done to completion.

Wamalwa revealed that once the Keben Dam water project construction work is complete and the dam is operational, residents will be supplied with water at a lower cost than the current bill rates, thus offering relief to the community.

“I want to thank all the stakeholders for their role in making this project a reality. The contractor is ready to take over the site and commence the construction works,” explained Wamalwa, while commending the government for this initiative and terming this project a lasting solution to the water shortages being experienced around the county.

On his part, LVNWWDA Director Abraham Cheruiyot observed that as an agency they will ensure 70 per cent of the locals are employed at the construction site to ensure the surrounding community benefits from this project.

Nandi Hills constituency Member of Parliament Benard Kitur lauded the government for this project, adding that sustained investment in water supply infrastructure is key to unlocking economic opportunities and improving lives.

“Investing in water infrastructure is investing in livelihoods and economic growth. Both major projects and small and small community water systems are essential to ensuring water reaches homes, farms and businesses,” said Kitur.

The public participation exercise will be carried out from Wednesday at the Koilot Assistant County Commissioner’s grounds and Keben dispensary – Thursday – before moving to lower Kilibwon, Songoriet secondary school in Kilibwon and Nandi Hills Bus Park on Monday next week.

By Ruth Mainye