The National Treasury of Kenya has re-advertised the tender for the proposed Kibuka Falls hydropower and irrigation dam project, signaling a fresh attempt to construct the multibillion-dollar infrastructure scheme. This move comes more than a year after canceling a previous deal. The ministry released a public notice inviting consulting firms to submit proposals for transaction advisory services under a revamped Public-Private Partnership framework.
The Kibuka Falls project, located across the Tana River in Tharaka-Nithi and Kitui counties, is a core part of Kenya's long-term energy and agricultural strategy. The design targets 700 megawatts of hydroelectric power generation and aims to irrigate nearly 500,000 acres of farmland. The reservoir will store over 5.6 billion cubic meters of water to support regional flood control, domestic supply, and economic development.
The government canceled a previous contract worth over KSh337 billion with a UK-based firm to safeguard public interest and re-examine legal compliance. Following initial steps to restart the venture under a revised Public-Private Partnership framework, the Treasury has now opened a fresh procurement window to bring transaction experts on board.
The selected advisory firm will determine how the government should structure, finance, and execute the project under updated Public-Private Partnership guidelines. Evaluation criteria will weigh the technical and financial merits of submitted proposals. The Treasury permits consulting firms to form joint ventures, provided they satisfy the terms set out in the tender documentation.
The pre-bidding meeting for the Kibuka Falls project is scheduled for November 3, and official bids must be submitted on or before November 24 at 11:00 AM. Applicants must complete proposals using official forms available on the government's E-GP portal. This move is expected to attract consulting firms with expertise in transaction advisory services.
The Kibuka Falls project is expected to have a significant impact on Kenya's energy and agricultural sectors. The project aims to provide a reliable source of renewable energy and support irrigation farming, which can boost food production and economic growth. The project will also create jobs and stimulate local economic development.
The National Treasury's decision to re-advertise the tender is a positive step towards reviving the project. The project has the potential to transform Kenya's energy and agricultural landscape. Key stakeholders will be watching closely as the project moves forward.
Key points
- The Kibuka Falls project targets 700 megawatts of hydroelectric power generation and aims to irrigate nearly 500,000 acres of farmland.
- The project was initially valued at KSh337 billion and will be developed under a revamped Public-Private Partnership framework.
- The pre-bidding meeting is scheduled for November 3, with official bids due on November 24 at 11:00 AM.
