The Effectiveness of Community Involvement in Developing Policies and Procedures for Kirandich River Dam Project of Baringo County, Kenya

Abstract

Dams and water reservoirs are essential infrastructure required for economic development. However, their establishment has always led to massive population displacement. The establishment of Kirandich River Dam in Kapkokei area led to the displacement of 98 households, who were later resettled in Kamailel Sub-location of Mochongoi division. However, the extent to which the community was involved as well as whether community concerns were addressed prior to their displacement remained unexplored. It is on this basis that this study examined the effectiveness of community involvement in the planning and procedures for the development of the dam. Specifically, the study examined sources of information on establishment of the dam, entities involved in decision making on establishment of the dam, issues negotiated between the community and government prior to dam construction. The study had a sample size of 106 selected multi-stage sampling. This study was anchored on Cultural Ecological Theory and Impoverishment, Risks and Reconstruction Model. This was a case study involving 106 respondents selected through multistage sampling methods. The study collected data through interview schedules and in-depth interviews, and then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. This study found that community involvement in establishment of the dam was done through open gatherings and boardroom meetings, with political leaders, elders and professionals being its representatives. Compensation, alternative land for resettlement, provision of social services and security in the new settlement were the key concerns of the community. There was no effective community involvement in the planning and establishment of Kirandich River Dam. This was due, in part, to undesirable forums of involvement and domination of planning and decision-making forums by government functionaries, government friendly personalities and unenlightened individuals (elders), who had no capacity to interrogate technical aspects about the Dam. As a result, displaced people were not only inadequately compensated but also were resettled in an area that lacked essential human survival services such as health, water, schools, security and roads. This study has recommended for comprehensive review of compensation policies on forced evictions and the inclusion of community assets as part of compensable items. The study also recommends for the provision of social services and infrastructure in areas earmarked for resettlement prior to the actual resettlement.