MPs launch nationwide inquiry into rising water levels in Kenya’s lakes and dams

The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Environment, Forestry and Mining has announced plans to undertake a nationwide inquiry into the rising water levels of lakes and dams across Kenya.

The inquiry follows the House’s receipt of a statement request on June 17, 2026, regarding the effects of rising water levels in Lakes Baringo and Bogoria on communities and educational institutions in Baringo South Constituency.

During a planning meeting chaired by the committee’s Vice Chairperson, Charles Kamuren, members observed that the phenomenon extends beyond Baringo County, with several lakes across the country experiencing significant increases in water levels.

The committee noted that the rising waters have affected settlements, public infrastructure, agricultural land, tourism, wildlife habitats and ecosystems.

“In considering the statement, the committee has resolved to expand the scope of the matter and undertake a comprehensive inquiry into the rising water levels of lakes in Kenya owing to the national significance of the issue and its environmental, economic and social implications,” Kamuren said.

Committee member Charity Kathambi-Chepkwony noted that although previous studies had identified possible causes and proposed solutions, many of the recommendations had not been implemented.

“Although studies, including those by the Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee on the Rising Water Levels of the Rift Valley Lakes, have identified possible causes and proposed interventions, many recommendations remain unimplemented,” she said.

The lawmakers said the inquiry will examine the causes and impacts of the rising water levels, assess the effectiveness of government interventions and recommend legislative, policy, administrative and budgetary measures to strengthen preparedness, mitigation, adaptation and the sustainable management of affected lake basins.

Committee member Leo Wamuthende said the inquiry would also evaluate the implementation of recommendations contained in previous reports on the issue.

“We must also assess the implementation status of previous reports and recommendations on rising lake water levels,” Wamuthende said.

Beatrice Kemei urged the committee to examine whether existing legislation, government policies and institutional frameworks are adequate to address the recurring challenge.

As part of the inquiry, the committee has scheduled meetings with relevant ministries, state agencies and other stakeholders involved in environmental management and disaster response.

The MPs will also conduct site visits to affected areas in several counties, including Baringo, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Kisumu, Turkana, Homa Bay, Migori and West Pokot, among others.

The findings of the inquiry are expected to inform recommendations aimed at strengthening the country’s response to the growing environmental and socio-economic impacts of rising lake and dam water levels.