Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho Inspects Navakholo Irrigation Development Project

ON THURSDAY,  Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho visited the Navakholo Irrigation Development project in Kakamega County. This ambitious initiative, currently at 76.8% completion and set to be fully operational by mid-2025, aims to transform the agricultural landscape for the communities in Bunyala East, Bunyala Central, and the broader Navakholo Constituency.

The project is poised to irrigate 1,000 acres of farmland, benefiting 1,000 households directly and impacting approximately 5,000 additional households. This initiative is expected to enhance food security and improve the income of local farmers, providing a significant boost to the region’s agrarian economy.

Project Components: Infrastructure for Growth

The Navakholo Irrigation Development project comprises several critical components designed to ensure an efficient and effective irrigation system. At its foundation are the intake works sourced from the Nzoia River, along with a sedimentation tank to filter and manage the quality of water. The project includes strategically placed river and gully crossings to maintain water flow and accessibility.

A conveyance pipeline stretching 10.2 kilometers, made up of 400 mm steel pipe, will transport water efficiently across the landscape. Additionally, about 30 kilometers of main lines and sub-mains will utilize high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes, with diameters varying from 355 mm to 25 mm. This intricate network aims to provide water to an in-field system catering to 1,000 farmers, ensuring that irrigation reaches the agricultural heart of the community.

Financial and Economic Viability of the Project

Financial analysis confirms that the Navakholo Irrigation Development project is not only a viable initiative but also presents substantial economic advantages. With an expected gross income of Ksh. 200 million, the project showcases impressive financial viability, boasting a payback period of less than two years. 

The anticipated agricultural enterprises focus on high-value horticultural crops, food crops, and industrial sugar cane, all of which are expected to contribute significantly to local and national economies. The project also aims to enhance food security and generate employment, offering direct benefits to 1,000 households and indirect benefits to an additional 5,000.

Expected Benefits: Building a Sustainable Future

The benefits of the Navakholo Irrigation Development project extend beyond immediate economic gains; they encompass a holistic approach to enhancing the community's agricultural landscape. The project promises improved food security, employment opportunities, and increased revenue from farm produce, with average gross margins estimated at Ksh. 200,000 per acre per annum.

By diversifying agricultural outputs, the project not only aims to bolster the local economy but also contribute to the national economy’s overall health. Expanding agricultural diversity stands to create substantial wealth and employment, simultaneously improving the socio-economic status of families within the community.

Furthermore, as part of its broader goals, the project implements a drought mitigation strategy designed to shield farmers from the adverse effects of climate change. This strategic approach is critical to fostering resilience within the agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers can maintain productive and sustainable operations even in the face of changing environmental conditions.

A Heartfelt Engagement with Farmers

At Kharanda Market, PS Kimotho engaged with a gathering of farmers eager to share their hopes and expectations for the irrigation development. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as local farmers expressed optimism about the project’s potential to create diverse economic opportunities. Many of them, who have long depended on rain-fed agriculture, highlighted how irrigation will help mitigate the challenges posed by climate change.

The project promises not only to secure water resources but also to create job opportunities across the agricultural production and marketing value chain. Farmers conveyed a sense of relief at the prospects of a more stable agricultural environment that irrigation can provide.

Empowering Through Capacity Building

A significant discussion point during Kimotho's visit revolved around the importance of capacity building alongside the implementation of irrigation infrastructure. An emphasis was placed on empowering the Irrigation Water Users Association (IWUA) to ensure that farmers are equipped to manage and sustain the irrigation systems effectively.

The need for comprehensive training programs for farmers was underscored to maximize the use of the irrigation systems while also preparing them for market challenges. Engaging aggregators and offtakers to enhance market efficiency emerged as a key strategy to tackle issues of market failure frequently faced by agricultural producers.

Collaboration for Cold Storage Solutions

In addition to strengthening irrigation efforts, discussions also covered the establishment of cold storage facilities in collaboration with development partners. Addressing post-harvest losses is crucial for farmers who often find their yield compromised due to inadequate storage options. Cold storage solutions are seen as a means to stabilize market prices and allow farmers to sell their produce at optimal times instead of facing pressure to sell immediately after harvest.

A Future Full of Possibilities

As the day progressed, it became clear that the Navakholo Irrigation Development project is not just about irrigation; it is a significant opportunity for community agriculturalists seeking stability and growth. Kimotho's engagement with local farmers demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting rural communities with essential resources and infrastructure.

With the completion date steadily approaching, there is palpable anticipation among farmers for the positive changes this project will bring. It represents a critical step toward fostering economic opportunities and improved livelihoods within the agricultural sector of Kakamega County.

The development initiative stands as a testament to the potential for agriculture in the region, with expectations of a prosperous future for the farmers of Navakholo hinged upon the successful implementation of the irrigation project.

Article by Victor Oyuko.  To buy coffee: 0708883777