By Peter Orengo
The Government plans to construct several multi-purpose dams along the Tana delta in the next two years.
The investments, which will cost Sh10 billion, is expected to have a wide range of implications on both the agricultural sector and the overall economy.
Agriculture PS Romano Kiome on Monday said resources are being mobilised for the projects following allocation of funds for irrigation development during the 2011/2012 financial year.
"To ensure maximum benefits, the use of multi-purpose dams for irrigation, energy generation and water supply have been proposed," said the PS.
He said the Multi-Purpose Dams concept is part of the Agricultural Sector Development Strategy 2010–2020 (ASDS), which will enable the sector build consensus on the dams for the benefit of the whole nation.
The draft National Irrigation Policy has also been produced in recognition of the emphasis placed on irrigation by Vision 2030.
The policy proposes new institutional arrangements in the sub-sector and a comprehensive legal framework for irrigation development and management.
A planned retreat this week by sector ministers, assistant ministers and Permanent Secretaries is expected to deliberate on key policies and Bills needed to deliver the goals of the ASDS and Vision 2030.
The main topics of the retreat will be Land, Water, Irrigation and the Agricultural Consolidation Bills.
"Consolidation of agricultural legislation is a flagship of Kenya Vision 2030. After years of stakeholder consultations, three Bills have now been generated and are ready for submission to the Cabinet," Kiome said.
A National Irrigation Bill has been developed that proposes to repeal Irrigation Act Cap 347 and enactment of a new legislation.
Kiome said the proposals will have implications on various sector ministries and hence the need to build consensus on them before they are submitted to the Cabinet.
