In a grandiose bid to drought-proof the nation, the government has today unveiled a multi-billion shilling masterplan to construct six mega dams across Kenya starting this year. The Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation terms it a "transformative agenda" to unlock 2 million acres of irrigation, but critics are already asking: Is this development, or another scandal in waiting?

The announcement lists specific, high-impact projects: Lowaat Dam in the sun-baked plains of Turkana, Radat Dam in Baringo, Thuci Dam in Embu, Basingila Dam in Isiolo, the colossal High Falls Dam straddling Kitui and Tharaka Nithi, and the Galana Dam at the coast. On paper, it is an engineering marvel designed to end the perennial cycle of famine.

The Ghost of Arror and Kimwarer

However, trust is a scarce commodity in Kenya’s water sector. The public memory is still scarred by the Arror and Kimwarer dam scandals, where billions vanished into thin air for projects that never broke ground. The High Grand Falls Dam itself has a troubled history, having been cancelled in July 2025 due to "flawed project evaluation" after ballooning costs hit KSh 337 billion.

"We are not just pouring concrete; we are pouring hope," a Ministry official insisted. "Strict due diligence and anti-graft safeguards are in place this time." But skepticism remains high. Taxpayers are wary of projects that serve as conduits for kickbacks rather than reservoirs for water.

• Strategic Locations: The focus on Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) is strategic. Turkana and Isiolo have vast potential for agriculture if water is harnessed.
• Food Security: With the cost of unga still a political hot potato, the promise of 2 million irrigated acres is the government's silver bullet for lowering food prices.

A High-Stakes Gamble

If successful, these dams could transform Kenya from a net food importer to a regional breadbasket. If they fail, they will add to the country's crushing debt burden and the graveyard of white elephant projects. As the excavators prepare to roll out later in 2026, the nation watches with bated breath—hoping for water, but fearing another drought of integrity.