NAIROBI, Keny- The government has secured approximately Sh3 billion to finance new irrigation projects in Western Kenya, citing the success of irrigation schemes in the Mt Kenya region as evidence that expanded irrigation can significantly boost agricultural productivity and farmers’ incomes.
The funding will support the expansion of irrigation infrastructure as part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance food security, increase agricultural output and improve livelihoods among smallholder farmers.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the Kandeki Irrigation Project in Kirinyaga County and the Gatene Irrigation Project in Embu County, Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho said the Mt Kenya irrigation model has delivered impressive results.
According to the PS, about 95pc of participating farmers have recorded increased productivity and improved household incomes through the programme.
“The irrigation model implemented in the Mt Kenya region has demonstrated that well-planned investments in irrigation can transform smallholder agriculture and improve livelihoods,” Kimotho said.
Nineteen Projects Supported
Kimotho said the programme has supported 19 irrigation projects across the Mt Kenya region through funding from the national government and development partners.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding irrigation infrastructure nationwide while strengthening farmer-led irrigation management systems to ensure long-term sustainability.
The PS noted that the government is promoting efficient use of agricultural land through sustainable irrigation, better labour productivity and prudent management of water resources.
He added that hydrological mapping is conducted before implementation of every irrigation project to ensure adequate and sustainable water availability.
Community Participation Key
Kimotho said public participation remains central to the success of irrigation projects, with county governments and agricultural extension officers helping ensure projects reflect the needs of local communities.
He encouraged farmers to form cooperatives and Irrigation Water Users Associations to improve access to affordable financing, agricultural training, markets and effective management of irrigation infrastructure.
“Through partnerships involving the National Government, county governments and financial institutions, including Equity Bank, organised farmer groups can access affordable credit to invest in certified seeds and modern irrigation technologies,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of county governments in providing extension services, supporting farmer organisations and incorporating irrigation initiatives into County Integrated Development Plans (CIDPs).
According to the PS, continuous monitoring through the National Irrigation Management Information System is helping improve project performance, accountability and sustainability.
Expanding Irrigated Land
Kimotho said the investment aligns with the government’s long-term objective of expanding irrigated agriculture to strengthen national food security.
He reiterated that Kenya aims to place an additional 2.5 million acres under irrigation as part of efforts to increase agricultural production, reduce dependence on rain-fed farming and enhance resilience to climate change.
