PS Kimotho’s Vision for Sustainable Farming in Kajiado East

WATER SCARCITY has been a perennial challenge for arid and semi-arid regions in Kenya, particularly in Kajiado East Constituency. However, a transformative initiative led by Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho is gradually changing this narrative. On Friday, the PS visited several water harvesting and storage facilities in the constituency, bringing to light the remarkable strides made in agricultural productivity through these interventions.

This feature delves into the initiatives, their impact on local communities, and the government's broader vision of enhancing water accessibility and agricultural efficiency in Kenya.

A Strategic Vision for Water Harvesting

The Kajiado East Constituency, largely inhabited by pastoral communities, has long struggled with insufficient water resources for both domestic and agricultural use. To address this, the State Department of Irrigation (SDI) has invested heavily in water harvesting and storage facilities, including the Jerusalem, Oloika, and Olosinya community water pans.

These water pans are engineered reservoirs designed to collect and store rainwater, ensuring a steady supply for agricultural purposes even during prolonged dry seasons. With a combined carrying capacity of 867,000m³, these facilities can irrigate over 600 acres of land, supporting thousands of farmers in the region. 

The PS’s visit was a pivotal moment to evaluate how effectively these facilities are being utilized and to explore opportunities to expand the number of beneficiaries. By adopting a hands-on approach, the PS demonstrated the government’s commitment to addressing the water challenges faced by the region’s residents.

Boosting Agricultural Productivity Through Innovation

The introduction of water pans has revolutionized farming practices in Kajiado East. Traditionally reliant on rain-fed agriculture, farmers are now embracing modern irrigation methods such as drip irrigation. This technique enables efficient water use, significantly reducing wastage while maximizing output.

Farmers in the region have successfully cultivated high-value horticultural crops such as onions, tomatoes, and spinach, which thrive under irrigation. Additionally, the pastoral community has reaped immense benefits, with the water pans ensuring a reliable source of water for livestock watering and irrigated fodder production.

The dual purpose of these facilities—supporting both crop production and livestock rearing—has greatly contributed to improving food security and household incomes. Families that once struggled to make ends meet are now generating substantial revenue from selling surplus produce and livestock.

The Economic Impact of Water Pan Rehabilitation

Over the years, the government has invested Ksh 196,915,230 in rehabilitating these water pans. This significant financial injection underscores the government’s dedication to fostering sustainable development in arid regions.

The rehabilitation process involved desilting the pans, constructing inlet and outlet structures, and installing protective measures to prevent soil erosion. These improvements have enhanced the durability and efficiency of the facilities, ensuring they serve the community for years to come.

The restored water pans have the capacity to irrigate an additional 580 acres of land, potentially bringing the total irrigated area to over 1,180 acres. This expansion aligns with the government’s broader agenda of promoting climate-smart agriculture and reducing dependency on unpredictable rainfall patterns.

Environmental Sustainability in Focus

While the primary goal of these projects is to improve water accessibility and agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability remains a core consideration. The construction and management of the water pans are guided by best practices that minimize ecological disruption.

For instance, the use of drip irrigation not only conserves water but also reduces the risk of soil salinization, which is a common challenge in arid regions. Moreover, the cultivation of fodder crops helps to stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and desertification.

These environmentally conscious practices ensure that the benefits of water harvesting extend beyond immediate agricultural needs, contributing to the long-term resilience of the ecosystem.

Empowering Communities Through Capacity Building

Beyond infrastructure development, the State Department of Irrigation has prioritized empowering local communities with the knowledge and skills needed to optimize the use of water resources. Farmers have been trained on modern irrigation techniques, crop selection, and pest management, equipping them to maximize productivity while minimizing resource wastage.

This capacity-building approach ensures that the projects are not only sustainable but also community-driven. By actively involving residents in decision-making and management, the government has fostered a sense of ownership, encouraging the responsible use and maintenance of the facilities.

A Broader Vision for the Future

The PS’s visit to Kajiado East underscored the government’s commitment to scaling up similar projects across the country. Recognizing the transformative impact of water harvesting and storage, the State Department of Irrigation plans to conduct feasibility studies to identify additional areas that can benefit from such interventions.

By expanding the reach of these initiatives, the government aims to enhance agricultural productivity, create employment opportunities, and improve livelihoods, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.

The success of the Kajiado East water pans serves as a testament to the potential of targeted investments in addressing Kenya’s water and food security challenges. With continued support and strategic planning, these projects could pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for millions of Kenyans.

Conclusion

Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho’s leadership in spearheading water harvesting initiatives in Kajiado East Constituency marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey toward sustainable agriculture. The rehabilitation and utilization of water pans have not only enhanced food security but also empowered communities economically and socially.

As the government continues to invest in innovative solutions to combat water scarcity, the lessons learned from Kajiado East will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for similar projects nationwide. By placing farmers at the heart of these efforts, the State Department of Irrigation is fostering resilience and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a better tomorrow.

This is a story of hope, resilience, and transformation—a story that showcases the power of innovation and collaboration in addressing one of Kenya’s most pressing challenges.

Article by Victor Oyuko. To buy coffee: 0708883777