Irrigation project in Kirinyaga revived after 10-year wait

Kirinyaga County has begun to receive pipes for an irrigation project that stalled 10 years ago.

The project in Thigirichi region of Kiriti ward has been relaunched to boost agricultural production in a region where the growing of cash crops for export is essentially non-existent. The county believes horticultural produce can do well in the region if water can be harnessed for irrigation.

 Already, Governor Joseph Ndathi has allocated Sh2 million from the county development kitty towards purchase of pipes to direct water to farms.

Ndia MP Stephen Ngari has also allocated Sh 1 million from CDF to facilitate the project.

Receiving the pipes from the governor on behalf of residents, the chairperson of the project, Grace Wanyeki, said that once complete the irrigation project will contribute significantly to transforming the lives of farmers.

 “As you have just seen, these people are hardworking but the harsh climatic conditions and lack of irrigation water have been our greatest drawback,” she said.

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Cash crops

“Through irrigation will begin to grow horticultural crops, rear fish and keep dairy cows,” Wanyeki said.

The governor said if agriculture keeps youths gainfully employed, it could be the antidote to rising alcoholism and uncontrolled consumption of illicit brews.

 “As a county government we are committed to ensuring there is an enabling environment for all to engage in productive activity to improve their livelihoods,” Ndathi said.

Kariti Ward in Kirinyaga County, with an estimated population of about 30,000 people, has high poverty levels as the harsh climate hinders cash crop farming.

It is the only ward whose four sub-locations do not have cash crops.