The Seven Forks Dams of Embu County

There are several dams in Kenya but the most famous are commonly referred to as “Seven Forks Dams.” These dams are located along the Tana River, which flows through various regions in Kenya. Here are seven notable dams along the Tana River, often associated with the “Seven Forks Dams” name:

1. Masinga Dam: Masinga Dam is the largest of the Seven Forks Dams. It is situated in Machakos County and was constructed in 1981. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and irrigation.
2. Kamburu Dam: Located downstream from Masinga Dam, Kamburu Dam is the second-largest dam in the series. It was built in 1974 and primarily serves as a hydroelectric power station.
3. Gitaru Dam: Gitaru Dam is situated downstream from Kamburu Dam and is one of the oldest dams in the series, completed in 1978. It is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation.
4. Kindaruma Dam: Kindaruma Dam is the fourth dam in the sequence and is situated downstream from Gitaru Dam. It was completed in 1968 and serves as a hydroelectric power station.
5. Kiambere Dam: Kiambere Dam is located downstream from Kindaruma Dam and was completed in 1988. It plays a vital role in hydroelectric power generation and forms part of the Tana River Development Project.
6. Mwambiti Dam: Mwambiti Dam is located downstream from Kiambere Dam and serves as a small hydroelectric power station. It was built to harness the water resources of the Tana River for electricity generation.
7. Low Grand Falls Dam (Grand Falls): This dam is situated downstream from Mwambiti Dam. It is often included as the seventh dam in the “Seven Forks Dams” series. The Low Grand Falls Dam helps regulate the flow of water along the Tana River.

These dams play a crucial role in Kenya’s hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply systems. They contribute significantly to the country’s energy production and water resource management along the Tana River basin.