The Kenyan government has unveiled an ambitious plan to lease large-scale irrigation schemes to private investors, aiming to significantly boost food production and achieve food security. This initiative is part of the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan (NISIP), which seeks to expand irrigated land by one million acres over the next decade. Currently, Kenya has 747,000 acres under irrigation, with 83,000 acres added in the last two years, leading to notable increases in production, particularly in the rice value chain.
Ephantus Kimotho, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Irrigation, highlighted the government’s strategy during the pre-conference launch of NISIP. He emphasized that the plan aims to unlock 50% of Kenya’s irrigation potential, which currently remains underutilized. To kickstart this initiative, the government has allocated 200,000 acres of land in the Galana-Kulalu Irrigation Scheme, where two private investors have already expressed interest. One investor has signed an agreement to cultivate 20,000 acres, with 5,400 acres set for immediate use. A second investor is conducting feasibility studies for the remaining 180,000 acres, with infrastructure development expected to begin within six months. However, full-scale farming will commence upon completion of a new dam on River Galana, projected to take two and a half years.
In addition to Galana-Kulalu, the government plans to lease the Bura Irrigation Scheme, aiming to expand its irrigated acreage from 6,000 to 40,000. Four investors have already shown interest in this project. These efforts are expected to significantly increase maize and rice production, with rice output targeted to rise from 293,000 metric tonnes to 440,000 metric tonnes, reducing reliance on imports.
The government also plans to utilize climate funding to irrigate 140,000 acres in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) for crop and fodder production. The 10-year NISIP plan, estimated to cost Ksh 598 billion, will see the private sector contribute Ksh 365 billion, while the government provides data and risk mitigation support. This collaborative approach aims to transform Kenya’s agricultural sector, ensuring food security and economic growth.
