Mega irrigation projects along Tana River linked to deadly diseases

Experts from Israel at the Galana Kulalu Food Security Project in Tana River last year. Report says such projects present grave environmental concerns. [PHOTO: GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD]

Scientists have linked mega irrigation projects to the rise of disease causing mosquitoes along Tana River Basin.

A joint team from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri), International Livestock Research Institute and the University of Nairobi says projects done without proper impact assessment are exposing locals to serious health risks.