In Kenya, the implementation of two hydro projects estimated at KSh63 billion (over $627 million) was halted for security reasons.  Golden Associates, the company carrying out an assessment of Arror and Kimwarer dams had to suspend operations after their working team was assaulted by angry protesters on the sites.

“We had no option but to suspend the assessment process after our vehicles were pelted with stones by youth opposed to the project,” said Mr. Roberto Mezzalama, the team leader.

However, the projects’ carriers reassure that a compensation system has been set for affected populations and invite the protesters to resort to relevant authorities.

Let’s remark that protests are the major barrier to the dams’ completion. In this regard, entities from the power sector recently suggested affected population should de facto and for free benefit from these facilities. They hope this decision will calm tensions.

Furthermore, the energy minister Charles Keter asked the country’s power regulator to lower electricity cost, following consumers’ complaints about higher electricity bills in H2, 2017.

Gwladys Johnson Akinocho