The Kenyan government has announced plans to construct additional dams in the North Rift region to address water shortages and enhance agricultural productivity. Water Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa made the revelation during his inspection of ongoing water projects in Uasin Gishu County on Wednesday. He highlighted that the region’s agricultural potential remains untapped, primarily due to inconsistent rainfall and water scarcity.
Currently, the land used for farming in the region spans approximately 6,000 acres. However, with the construction of the new dams, this area is expected to increase to 9,000 acres, unlocking more opportunities for local farmers. This expansion is seen as a key strategy in ensuring food security in Kenya, particularly in the face of unpredictable weather patterns that often affect crop yields.
Mugaa emphasized the importance of reducing Kenya’s reliance on rain-fed agriculture, which has been vulnerable to the changing climate. By shifting towards irrigation-driven farming through reliable water sources such as dams, the country can mitigate the adverse effects of drought and ensure year-round food production. This, he said, would contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth, create employment opportunities, and support rural communities.
The move is aligned with President William Ruto’s broader development agenda for the North Rift region. From Thursday, President Ruto is expected to launch several development projects aimed at improving infrastructure and boosting agricultural productivity. These initiatives form part of a larger effort by the government to modernize farming practices and address challenges that have long hindered the agricultural sector’s potential.
The government’s commitment to investing in water infrastructure reflects a strategic shift towards sustainable development in agriculture. With a growing population and increasing demand for food, the enhanced water supply in the North Rift is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening Kenya’s food systems and ensuring long-term agricultural resilience.
