From drought to abundance: How village changed malnutrition with irrigation farming

Some local farmers carry part of their sorghum produce at Naoros farm in Turkana Central during harvesting exercise earlier January 2025. [Lucas Ngasike/Standard] Two years ago, Naoros village in Turkana Central exemplified the devastating effects of drought. Malnourished children and frail adults struggling to access food, were a common sight as drought and water scarcity ravaged the region. Today, however, Naoros has beome a beacon of hope in the fight against malnutrition, as pastoralists have embraced crop farming as part of the initiative to fight drought and combat climate change. This shift occurred after the villagers partnered with local organizations to grow food as their livestock had been wiped out by the recurring droughts. Through innovative irrigation farming, community health initiatives, and collaborative effotts, the rate of malnutrition among children under five in Naoros has dropped dramatically. Recent statistics from the County Department of Health at Naoros Dispensary show that the number of malnutrition cases among children under five decreased by an impressive 41 per cent between January and December 2024. The figures show a remarkable improvement in malnutrition cases, transforming the village from one known for its emaciated children. The number of malnutrition cases dropped significantly, from 183 in January 2024 to just 39 by December. Nicholas Lotukoi, the nurse in charge of Naoros Dispensary, attributes much of the improvement to the introduction of irrigation farming, which has significantly boosted food production in the region. In partnership with Concern Worldwide and other development partners, irrigated land in Naoros was expanded from 100 acres to 390 acres, enabling farmers to grow a variety of crops, including sorghum, maize, green grams, and watermelons. But it's not just the crops making a difference. Lotukoi highlights the training of Community Health Promoters (CHPs), who are identifying malnutrition early and guiding families to the appropriate treatment. He explained that CHPs, along with mother-to-mother support groups focused on breastfeeding and proper cooking practices, are playing a crucial role in educating the community and improving nutrition. "It's not just about food production; it's also about empowering families with the knowledge to properly nourish their children through various educational programs," Lotukoi said. For the first time in seven years, the farmers of Naoros celebrated a bountiful harvest in January 2025. The farm program, which now supports 367 households, has not only improved food security but also provided an avenue for income generation. With the expansion of irrigated land and crop diversity, families in Naoros can now grow enough food to feed themselves and sell the surplus to sustain their livelihoods. Food security initiatives in Naoros combine crop and fodder production alongside livestock interventions, ensuring a year-round food supply. To further improve irrigation, the organization works with local communities and Concern Worldwide to desilt a seven-kilometer canal, which now reliably channels water to the farms. "These efforts ensure food availability at the household level, while increased income enables families to diversify their diets and maintain healthy living," he added. At Naoros village, the benefits of this agricultural revolution extend beyond food security. Women, who once had to trek long distances in search of wild fruits, now grow their own food, feed their families, and sell the surplu Ruth Epat, the Chairperson of Naoros Farm, recalls the hardships of the past, particularly the 2011 famine when Kang'atotha Ward was one of the hardest-hit regions. Epat noted that while the Kenyans for Kenya fundraising campaign by the Kenya Red Cross Society provided temporary relief, it was the empowerment of local farmers that ultimately brought lasting change. "Today, women are self-sufficient. I can proudly say we are better off than in past years. We can feed our families and earn income," Epat said. She also said youth in the community now have opportunities to work on the farm and support their families. Epat urges the government and other partners to continue expanding these initiatives, ensuring that more farmers can benefit from key farming tools and knowledge.

From drought to abundance: How village changed malnutrition with irrigation farming

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