Water levels at Kenya’s major hydroelectric dams have continued to decline as a prolonged dry spell persists across key catchment areas, raising concerns over electricity generation even as authorities maintain that power supply remains stable.
Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) says reduced rainfall has significantly affected the Seven Forks hydroelectric cascade, which plays a critical role in the country’s power mix.
Latest data shows water levels at Masinga and Kiambere dams have dropped by about three metres each. Kamburu Dam has recorded a one-metre decline, Kindaruma is down by two metres, while Gitaru has fallen by half a metre. KenGen warns that the situation could worsen if the dry conditions continue.
Despite the falling levels, KenGen Chief Executive Officer Eng. Peter Njenga moved to calm public anxiety, assuring Kenyans that contingency measures are in place to maintain uninterrupted electricity supply.
“We want to assure Kenyans that despite the reduced water levels, we have measures in place to ensure a stable and reliable power supply,” Njenga said during an inspection tour of the Seven Forks Cascade.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi echoed the assurance while touring the dams and the proposed High Grand Falls Hydropower Project, emphasizing the government’s commitment to energy security.
“Our focus is to secure adequate power to support industrial growth and protect the economy from energy shocks,” Wandayi said.
To strengthen long-term resilience, the government plans to roll out two major power generation projects under public-private partnership arrangements. These include the High Grand Falls Hydropower Dam, expected to add 700 megawatts to the national grid, and a 40.5-megawatt solar power project.
The developments form part of a broader strategy to diversify Kenya’s energy mix and reduce over-reliance on hydropower, which remains increasingly vulnerable to climate variability.
As dry conditions persist, energy officials say the shift toward renewable alternatives such as solar power will be key to ensuring a stable and sustainable electricity supply for the country.
