PS Kimotho Hosts JICA to Track Progress of Transformative Irrigation Schemes

By Victor Patience Oyuko 

On Wednesday morning, the State Department for Irrigation marked yet another milestone in Kenya’s transformative journey toward agricultural self-reliance and food security. In a meeting that underscored the spirit of mutual cooperation and enduring development, the Principal Secretary for Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, welcomed a high-level delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) led by Mr. Suzuki Fumihiko, Senior Representative. Also present was the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) team, led by their CEO, Eng. Charles Muasya, MBS.

This strategic engagement was a powerful reminder of what is possible when nations work together with shared values and long-term vision. At the heart of the meeting was one clear goal: consolidating progress and exchanging updates on joint projects that are central to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), particularly in the irrigation sub-sector.

Advancing Irrigation for National Development

The State Department for Irrigation continues to play a pivotal role in actualizing Kenya’s commitment to transforming agriculture from subsistence to a commercially viable enterprise. Wednesday’s meeting reflected this commitment, with discussions revolving around ongoing collaborative irrigation projects—namely, the Mwea Irrigation Development Project, the Ahero Irrigation Scheme, and the West Kano Irrigation Scheme.

These projects are not mere infrastructural undertakings—they are engines of national progress. Each scheme, supported through the technical and financial expertise of JICA, is tailored to improve water access, expand irrigated acreage, and enhance agricultural productivity across critical regions of Kenya.

The Mwea Irrigation Development Project stands as one of Kenya’s most prominent and longstanding irrigation schemes. Through ongoing collaboration, it continues to benefit thousands of farming households who rely on consistent water supply to produce rice and other food crops. In the same spirit, the Ahero and West Kano irrigation schemes represent vital components of the national irrigation network, especially in Western Kenya where agriculture remains the backbone of local livelihoods.

A Partnership Rooted in Results

The longstanding cooperation between Kenya and Japan—through JICA—has borne tangible results. Beyond financing, JICA has consistently extended its technical expertise to ensure that projects are executed efficiently and meet the needs of communities. This consultative meeting re-affirmed both sides' commitment to keeping these projects on track, focused, and aligned with the broader national agenda.

PS Kimotho, alongside the NIA leadership, provided comprehensive updates on project implementation, reinforcing transparency and mutual accountability in the execution process. These updates not only assured the visiting delegation of Kenya’s dedication to timely delivery, but also set the tone for deeper technical cooperation in the future.

It is this level of openness, professionalism, and shared purpose that makes the JICA-Kenya partnership a model for international development collaboration.

The Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda

The Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, a key pillar of the current administration’s development plan, places strong emphasis on food security, job creation, and the empowerment of local communities. Irrigation is central to this strategy, especially as the country works to reduce its dependency on rain-fed agriculture.

The projects discussed during Wednesday’s meeting are aligned with this national priority. They not only enhance food production but also contribute to economic inclusion by empowering smallholder farmers and reducing their vulnerability to climate-related shocks. This, in turn, creates sustainable livelihoods and strengthens the resilience of entire communities.

Through these irrigation schemes, the government is also working to support agricultural commercialization. With enhanced irrigation infrastructure, farmers are able to grow crops throughout the year, access better markets, and increase their household incomes. Such progress directly feeds into the BETA goals of reducing poverty and uplifting grassroots communities.

Leadership Anchored in Vision

While the spotlight was rightfully shared with development partners and implementing agencies, it is important to recognize the pivotal leadership role that the State Department for Irrigation continues to play under PS Ephantus Kimotho. His stewardship has consistently ensured that strategic projects are not only initiated but also tracked and executed with clarity of purpose.

PS Kimotho’s leadership in convening such high-level engagements and prioritizing project updates reflects a results-driven approach to public service. He has made it clear that irrigation is not just about infrastructure—it is about securing the country’s future, ensuring food sovereignty, and creating the conditions for shared prosperity.

The presence of Eng. Charles Muasya, MBS, CEO of the National Irrigation Authority, added further weight to the meeting. His technical insight and firm grasp of the schemes’ progress offered confidence that the projects are in capable hands and on the right path.

Deepening International Solidarity

The meeting also symbolized something larger: the enduring friendship and partnership between the people of Kenya and Japan. Through JICA, Japan has demonstrated a deep commitment to Kenya’s development, not just through monetary support, but through the transfer of knowledge, technology, and systems that strengthen local capacity.

For Kenya, this relationship has unlocked opportunities to harness international best practices in irrigation design, implementation, and sustainability. It has also enabled local engineers and technicians to benefit from exposure and training that continues to raise the country’s technical bar in water management.

At a time when climate variability continues to pose challenges to food systems, such partnerships offer a critical buffer. They represent resilience, foresight, and a shared desire to uplift the lives of ordinary citizens through tangible action.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

As the consultative meeting drew to a close, the message was unmistakable: Kenya is moving forward—with purpose, with partners, and with people at the centre of every project. The collaborative progress in Mwea, Ahero, and West Kano shows what can be achieved through unity of vision and strength of leadership.

With PS Kimotho at the helm of the State Department for Irrigation, these engagements are not isolated events—they are part of a sustained push to elevate irrigation as a national development priority. His commitment to coordination, transparency, and results continues to inspire confidence among stakeholders.

The road ahead is one of continued partnership and purposeful implementation. As Kenya seeks to unlock its full agricultural potential, the foundation laid through collaborations like this one with JICA will remain instrumental in securing a more food-secure and economically empowered nation.

Article by Victor Patience Oyuko. To buy coffee: 0708883777