The government has announced plans to build a large dam inside Tsavo East National Park, a move that could renew debate over development in Kenya’s protected wildlife areas.
A notice from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) states that the National Irrigation Authority is seeking authorization for the proposed Athi Dam and associated irrigation works inside the park in Taita Taveta County.
The proposal outlines a combined concrete and rock-fill dam capable of holding 306.4 million cubic metres of water.
The project would form a reservoir of about 38 square kilometres, extending roughly 13 kilometres in length and six kilometres in width within the park.
The notice says oral or written comments on the project may be submitted within 30 days of publication to help NEMA assess the proposal.
The dam is intended to regulate river flows, control sediment loads and supply water for irrigation through a broad conveyance system. It is expected to rise to a maximum height of 34 metres and serve as a major storage facility for irrigation.
However, the EIA report warns that the project may carry serious environmental consequences. Potential effects include habitat loss, fragmentation, reduced biodiversity, displacement of wildlife, increased human-wildlife conflict and changes to natural water flow patterns.
To reduce those risks, the report suggests building wildlife overpasses, maintaining ongoing ecological monitoring, restoring habitats and strengthening surveillance of wildlife populations.
It also proposes artificial water pools for animals including hippos and crocodiles.
The proposal follows another government-backed conservation initiative that recently drew public anger and legal action over planned changes to protected land in Nairobi National Park.
Earlier this month, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) said it planned to relocate the Nairobi Animal Orphanage from its current site within Nairobi National Park.
The agency said the relocation was needed because more injured, orphaned and displaced animals were requiring rehabilitation.
Despite that explanation, the plan faced strong resistance from environmental lobby groups after reports indicated that about 76 acres of indigenous upland forest in Nairobi National Park would be cleared for the project.
Opponents also questioned plans for an eight-acre parking area and related infrastructure connected to the proposed Bomas International Convention Centre.
The dispute led to protests outside Nairobi National Park, involving former Chief Justice David Maraga and several activists.