State to build dykes to control floods in Homa Bay, says CS Njeru

The government has said it will construct dykes along major rivers to address perennial floods in Karachuonyo, Homa Bay county.

Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Zachariah Njeru said the dykes will be built along rivers Miriu, Kibuon, Tende and Lambwe.

The ongoing construction of Magwagwa dam will also control floods along River Miriu.

“A team from the National Youth Service will build the dykes along River Miriu and do desiltation on specific beaches in Lake Victoria to address backflow,” Njeru said.

The relevant ministries have been involved to undertake the project.

“The government is aware that crops were destroyed by floods and houses collapsed. We want to provide a long-term solution,” he said.

Njeru spoke yesterday at Rakwaro chief’s camp in Karchachuonyo when distributing food to flood victims.

He was accompanied by Arid and Semi Arid Principal Secretary Harsama Kello, Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency CEO Jackline Kemunto and chairman Odoyo Owidi.

Owidi urged state agencies such as Ken Gen, Lake Basin Development Authority and Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency to help implement the projects.

“Construction of the dam was a proposal that was made years ago, however due to financial constraints it has not been implemented. The dam will be able to hold water and release it at controlled rates,” he said.

Owidi asked elected leaders to support government projects.

“We all want to enjoy better services from the government and this needs cooperation,” he said.

Homa Bay county commissioner Moses Lilan decried persistent floods in Wang' Chieng' ward.

Sometime last year, families moved to camps twice in April and in November.

He said at least 1,057 families are currently living in camps.

State distributed 720 bags of rice, 400 bags of beans and 200 packets of flour.

 “Many families have been affected in Homa Bay. Some are living in camps while others have moved out and are living with their families,” Lilan said.

Government officials are engaging families and advising them on what to do during floods.

Homa Bay Devolution executive Grace Osewe said floods have affected county projects such as construction of Riwa Special Economic Zone 

 Wang' Chieng' Ward MCA Victor Obuya said the government criticised the government for not coming up with flood mitigation measures on time.

“Implementation of the project will see a relief to the many families which get affected every season,” Obuya said.