Pandemonium of Development – Induced Displacements on the Sociopolitical organization of Households Displaced by the Establishment of Kirandich River Dam in Kenya

Dams and water reservoirs are essential infrastructure required for economic development. However, their establishment has sometimes led to massive population displacement. The establishment of Kirandich River Dam in Kapkokei area of Kabarnet led to the displacement of 128 households, who were later resettled in Kamailel Sub-location of Mochongoi division. However, the effects of displacement on displaced households in their new settlement remained largely unknown. This study examined pandemonium of development – induced displacements on the sociopolitical political organization of households displaced by the establishment of Kirandich River Dam in Kenya. Specifically, the study examined the effects of development-induced displacements on the family, health and medicine, livelihood and political organization. The study was anchored on the Cultural Ecological Theory and the Impoverishment, Risks and Reconstruction Model. This was a case study involving 106 respondents selected through multistage sampling methods. The study collected data through questionnaires, in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Displacement undermined the institution through disruption of familial ties and networks that families had nurtured over the years prior to displacement. Displacement also imperiled the institution of health and medicine among the displaced households as well as indigenous dispute resolution structures. While displacement compromised pastoralism and formal employment-based livelihoods, it enhanced farming as a source of livelihood. Displacement also impeded displaced people’s access to basic social services such as education, health and transport. This study recommends for comprehensive review of compensation policies on forced evictions and the inclusion of community assets as part of compensable items. There is also need for provision of social services and infrastructure in areas earmarked for resettlement prior to the actual resettlement.