Glimmer of hope for farmers as Sh24.8 million irrigation project takes off

The Sh24.8 million Nyangera irrigation scheme is now complete, the National Irrigation Board (NIB) has confirmed.

NIB officials said the project would lower the cost of irrigation and ensure unhindered flow of water into irrigation canals.

Currently, only 120 acres in Nyangera are under irrigation, but according to the officials the acreage will increase to 1,000.  

The project will mainly benefit farmers in Central Yimbo location and Usenge sub-location.

Dry spell

Florence Winja, a local farmer, said the irrigation scheme came at a time most local farmers were suffering the effects of a dry spell.

“This irrigation scheme has come to rescue us because, personally, I have been affected by the dry spell over the years,” said Ms Winja.

County Commissioner Michael ole Tialal advised farmers to take advantage of the irrigation scheme to eradicate poverty.

Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda, who welcomed the project, said having a consistent supply of water would make the area food secure.

He, however, cited the land tenure system as one of the biggest challenges the project faced.