Makueni, Kenya – March 20, 2025
Over 7,800 residents in Ulilinzi and Ngwata locations, Masongaleni Ward, can now access clean water following the commissioning of the Uyi Earth Dam, a project aimed at enhancing water security in one of Kenya’s arid regions. While hailed as a significant milestone, questions linger over government accountability, long-term sustainability, and the true impact of such investments on local communities.
The KSh 55 million project, funded through a collaboration between the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), the Makueni County Government, and local residents, is expected to serve 8,000 cattle and 15,000 goats, offering much-needed relief in a county frequently hit by drought. However, with such a hefty price tag, concerns are being raised about whether the project truly delivers value for money.
Who Really Owns This Project?
While government officials have taken center stage in celebrating the success of the dam, the local community’s role in financing and contributing labor to the project has largely been overlooked. Residents contributed KSh 5 million in donated land, materials, and labor, demonstrating grassroots-driven ownership and a commitment to sustainable solutions.
“This dam is not just about water. It’s about survival, dignity, and self-reliance,” said a local elder. “We have seen many projects launched with fanfare, only for them to be abandoned. This time, we must ensure that it truly serves our people.”
Government Promises vs. Reality
The Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) and Regional Development Principal Secretary, Kello Harsama, praised the project, emphasizing its role in strengthening water access in the region. However, residents remain skeptical of government rhetoric versus actual impact.
Harsama announced that additional funding will be allocated to expand the dam, reducing the distance women travel to fetch water from 15 kilometers to 5 kilometers. But many locals argue that success should not be measured by reduced walking distance alone—but by whether water reaches every household affordably and consistently.
Furthermore, some community members question how efficiently the KSh 55 million was utilized. “For this amount of money, we expect more than just a desilted dam and a few water kiosks. What guarantees do we have that this investment will not require another multi-million shilling upgrade within a few years?” asked a concerned resident.
Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. echoed similar sentiments, stating that water scarcity is a key driver of poverty and gender-based violence, underscoring the need for widespread dam construction across all wards in Makueni.
“If we truly want to solve food insecurity and end domestic violence, then we must ensure that every home has access to clean water,” he said. However, his administration’s ability to deliver water security across all wards remains unproven.
Beyond Commissioning: Will the Dam Survive Neglect?
As with many government-backed projects, the real challenge lies in long-term sustainability. The dam’s maintenance will require strict governance, community oversight, and guaranteed funding beyond its initial launch.
“We celebrate this achievement today, but we must also ask: Who will maintain this dam in five years? Will the county still fund water treatment and infrastructure upkeep, or will it fall into disrepair like so many others?” posed a local activist.
Food Relief or Short-Term Solutions?
In an attempt to pacify drought-affected communities, Harsama also announced that each of the 10 sub-counties in Makueni will receive 300 bags of maize and 260 bags of beans next week. While welcome, such food aid does little to create long-term resilience.
“What we need are policies that empower farmers, not just food handouts. If water projects like this dam are properly managed, we won’t need relief aid every drought season,” said a local farmer.
The Bigger Question: Water Justice for All
The Uyi Earth Dam offers hope, but also exposes the deeper issues of access, governance, and equitable resource distribution. With KSh 55 million already spent, the real question is whether the investment will stand the test of time—or if more public funds will be required in a few years to fix overlooked flaws.
As the government moves to expand the project, the focus must shift from photo ops to real, lasting impact.
Will the Uyi Dam stand as a symbol of community-driven success or become another project that fades into neglect? The people of Makueni will be watching.
