Plans to implement the Magwagwa Dam Multipurpose Development Project along Sondu River in Nyamira district has kicked off with a memorandum of understanding between the government and Sinohydro Corporation Limited.

The proposed dam will act as a reservoir to regulate the flows both for hydropower and irrigation as well as mitigate against floods in the lower reaches of the Sondu River.

Speaking in his office during a meeting with representatives of Sinohydro Corporation to work out a proposal for implementation and financing of the project, the managing director of Lake Basin Development Authority, Mr. Joseph Khaemba said the government is currently focusing on development of multipurpose projects with hydropower as a major component in its medium to large scale schemes.

He added the government has put priority in implementing the project which is in its first medium-term plan of the vision 2030.

Mr. Khaemba said the project is geared towards improving economic development in the Lake Basin Development Authority region and the country as a whole by producing electric energy for socio-economic development and water for irrigation, domestic and industrial uses.

On completion, the projects expected output includes 120 megawatts of hydropower, 15,000 hacters of irrigated land and water supply to 60,000 people. Sinohydro Corporation Limited is a Chinese company dealing in water conservancy and hydropower industry.