KenGen Addresses Concerns as Seven Forks Dams Reach Near Peak Capacity

KenGen has released an official statement to the public regarding the Seven Forks dams cascade, stating that they are safe despite the high amount of water flowing into the dams due to heavy rainfall in the catchment areas.

This follows increasing public alarm over the rising water levels in the dams.

The power producer stated that the increased inflows are a direct result of exceptional rainfall being experienced across the Mt. Kenya and Aberdare regions.

According to the company, the situation is a natural weather-driven occurrence and not an indication of structural or operational risk within the dam systems.

“Kenya is experiencing exceptional rainfall across the Mt. Kenya and Aberdare catchment areas, driving very high inflows into our Seven Forks cascade entirely a natural weather event,” KenGen said.

Dams Functioning According to Design

KenGen confirmed that all the dams within the Seven Forks system were operating according to design, serving an important purpose of controlling floods.

KenGen brushed aside any suggestions of any risks, explaining that this was what the system was designed for.

“Our dams are doing exactly what they were built to do: holding back enormous volumes of water that would otherwise overwhelm communities downstream. They are the buffer, not the threat,” the statement read.

The Seven Forks cascade includes major reservoirs such as Masinga, Kamburu, Gitaru, and Kindaruma, all of which are currently at or near peak capacity.

According to the update, Masinga Dam stands at 1,056.54 meters, Kamburu at 1,006.07 meters, Gitaru at 923.69 meters, and Kindaruma at 780.28 meters.

Also Read:Young Woman Feared Swept Away by Floods Found Dead with Phone in Pocket

Increased Energy Generation and Public Safety Measures

KenGen highlighted that the high water levels are contributing positively to electricity generation, noting that the country is benefiting from increased hydropower output.

This comes at a time when demand for reliable and clean energy remains high.

“The good news? All that water is powering Kenya,” the company stated.

On the other hand, KenGen advised people residing in the Tana River to be on the alert and abide by the safety guidelines provided by the authorities.

They have also emphasized that preventive actions should be taken to avoid any mishaps, especially in flood-prone regions.

“To communities along the Tana River: please heed local authority advisories and stay clear of riverbanks. Your safety sits at the centre of every decision we make,” KenGen cautioned.

Also Read:Kenya Power Staff Walk Free in Ksh 159 Million Procurement Scandal

Transparency and Public Awareness Commitment

KenGen reasserted its commitment to the maintenance of transparency and ensuring that the public remains updated on the matter.

It was highlighted that the firm continues to monitor dam levels and work together with all stakeholders to ensure their safety.

“KenGen is generating record clean energy, protecting downstream communities, and communicating transparently,” the statement added.

The company also encouraged the public to rely on official communication channels for updates and to avoid misinformation.

“Stay informed. Stay safe. Please follow official communications from KenGen and local authorities,” the notice concluded.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

A press release by KenGen in regards to the Seven Forks dams cascade on the situation of high amount of water flowing into the dams due to heavy rainfall. PHOTO/ KenGen