The proposed project covers Bomet and Narok Counties located in the upper catchments of the Mara River Basin. It will serve communities from Mulot, Kapkimolwa, Longisa, Lelaitich, Sugumerga, Kaboson and Sogoo with estimated beneficiaries of 150,000 residents. The project will involve pre-investment studies whereby feasibility studies, detailed designs and preparation of tender documents shall be undertaken. To ensure that the project comply to national, regional and international environmental and social safeguards, independent environmental and social impacts studies and resettlement policy framework shall be prepared.
The Amala-Norera WRD Project seeks to promote sustainable water management practices that balance the needs of various water users, including agriculture, livestock, and domestic use. The Project is part of the investment projects advanced by Kenya to NELSAP for project preparation. The project was included in the NELSAP Strategic Plan 2012 - 2016,
approved by the NEL Council of Ministers in January 2012. The project is prioritized by the Government of Kenya, and it is included in the National Water Masterplan, 2030. Pre-feasibility studies for Amala dam and feasibility studies for Norera dam were concluded in 2014.
The impact of the Amala-Norera WRD Project is significant. It will not only ensure a sustainable supply of water for the communities and livestock in Bomet and Narok Counties with population of 1,028,130 and 1,157,8733 but also improve the quality of water in the river, which is essential for the survival of aquatic life and the tourism industry, a critical source of income for both countries. The project will increase water availability for agriculture through development of 5,000Ha irrigation command area, hence improve food security and create new income opportunities for farmers. Moreover, by promoting sustainable water management practices, the project will contribute to reducing conflicts over water
resources and enhance the resilience of the communities to climate change.
The project will contribute towards increased irrigated agriculture on 5,000 hectares; provide water for domestic and livestock use to 150,000 residents in Bomet and Narok Counties and hydro-electric power generation. The Project expected outputs include:
• Supply potable water needs of a wider zone in Bomet and Narok Counties.
• Supply the entire area of 5,000 ha planned for irrigation development in the Amala basin as per National Water Masterplan of Kenya.
• Micro hydro power production.
• Greatly increase conservation flows in Mara River thus benefiting the ecosystems of Maasai Mara Reserve and Serengeti National Park in Kenya and Tanzania respectively.