Kenya: Japanese Team to Consider Effect of Forest Loss on Troubled Power Project
Copyright 2001 BBC Monitoring Africa
November 15, 2001
A delegation of technical experts from Japan is due in Kenya to study the possible effects of the planned forest excisions on the troubled 60 MW Sondu Miriu hydroelectric power project [western Kenya].
Concern has been expressed on the future sustainability of the power project in Nyakach, Nyando District, should the proposed forest excisions, which includes the Mau water catchment area, be executed.
The parliamentary committee on agriculture, lands, water and natural resources chaired by Mosop MP, Mr John Sambu, will from tomorrow visit all the areas targeted for excision.
The legislators will fly over the Mau region and survey the rest of the areas, including the Mount Kenya forest.
The Japanese mission is expected in the country any time this week under the auspices of the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC).
The excision of the forest will feature during their inspection tour. Funding for phase two of the project has been pending for some time with the planned excision presenting a new controversy. The charge d'affaires at the Japanese embassy and acting ambassador, Ryuhei Hosaya, said he was aware of the mission, but added that he did not have the full details.
Hosaya said continuation of the funding of the electricity project lay in Kenya's hands. He expressed optimism that the project would continue, adding that there was more concern on general governance.
Hosaya said the issue of excision had not been presented as one of the conditions during negotiation for the funding of the project, as there was the overall condition on environment and social issues...