(Kisumu) – A grassroots organization has constructed 46 small dams in Kisumu and Homa Bay counties to mitigate persistent flooding and improve water storage during droughts.
A grassroots organization, Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), has launched a transformative initiative to combat chronic flooding in Kisumu and Homa Bay counties. The project involves constructing 46 small dams across flood-prone regions, bringing much-needed relief to local communities.
The dams, strategically located in Seme, Nyando, Kisumu West, Muhoroni, and Nyakach in Kisumu County, and Karachuonyo, Kabondo Kasipul, and Kasipul in Homa Bay County, are designed to manage and reduce flood damage effectively.
“These small dams will help curb flooding, safeguard lives and property, and maintain critical infrastructure,” explained Kennedy Odede, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SHOFCO. Speaking at Awasi in Nyando Sub-County, a region frequently plagued by floods, Odede emphasized the importance of collective action.
Flooding has long disrupted lives in Nyando, often forcing residents to relocate to temporary camps. The recent overflow of River Nyando flooded the town of Ahero, submerging homes and farmland. SHOFCO’s intervention seeks to provide a sustainable solution, reducing dependence on county and national government assistance.
“Collaboration is essential to address this issue. These small dams will prevent the extensive destruction we’ve witnessed over the years,” Odede added.
Each dam, occupying about half an acre, can store up to 200,000 cubic meters of water. Besides controlling floods, these reservoirs will serve multiple purposes during droughts, such as providing irrigation water for farms, drinking water for households, and hydration for livestock.
Odede highlighted the irony of communities suffering from floods and later droughts, stressing the importance of rainwater harvesting and conservation.
Seme MP Dr. James Nyikal praised SHOFCO’s efforts, acknowledging the broader impact of the project. “Building these small dams not only reduces flooding but also empowers communities to become more self-reliant amidst climate change challenges,” he said.
The initiative has also been lauded by local residents. Jennifer Atieno, a resident of Kabonyo Kanyagwal ward, expressed her gratitude to SHOFCO. “Now, instead of fearing floods, we hope for rain to fill our dams,” she said.
SHOFCO ensures public involvement in deciding dam locations and other project implementations, aligning with constitutional provisions. This inclusive approach reinforces the project’s community-driven model.
Illustration of Dams’ Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kisumu and Homa Bay counties |
| Number of Dams | 46 |
| Capacity per Dam | 200,000 cubic meters |
| Land Size per Dam | Half an acre |
| Uses | Flood control, irrigation, drinking water, livestock hydration |
