KENYA MOJA

  The National Irrigation Authority continues to strengthen its commitment to transforming rural livelihoods through modern irrigation systems. In Marakwet East Constituency of Elgeyo Marakwet County, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Mugaa Eric, accompanied by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Irrigation CPA Ephantus Kimotho, Marakwet East Member of Parliament Hon. Bowen Kagongo, and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Irrigation Authority Eng. Charles Muasya, inspected the ongoing construction of the Mulwaper Irrigation Project. The inspection visit highlighted the government’s determination to deliver on promises of food security and economic empowerment, especially in semi-arid areas where traditional rain-fed farming is no longer reliable. The high-level delegation’s presence underscored the importance of the project not only to Elgeyo Marakwet but also to the broader national agenda of increasing agricultural productivity. ...

The State Department for Irrigation continues to strengthen its commitment to transforming rural livelihoods through modern irrigation systems. In Marakwet East Constituency of Elgeyo Marakwet County, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Mugaa Eric, accompanied by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Irrigation CPA Ephantus Kimotho, Marakwet East Member of Parliament Hon. Bowen Kagongo, and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Irrigation Authority Eng. Charles Muasya, inspected the ongoing construction of the Mulwaper Irrigation Project. The inspection visit highlighted the government’s determination to deliver on promises of food security and economic empowerment, especially in semi-arid areas where traditional rain-fed farming is no longer reliable. The high-level delegation’s presence underscored the importance of the project not only to Elgeyo Marakwet but also to the broader national agenda of increasing agricultural productivity. Cons...

Northern Kenya has long struggled with the devastating effects of prolonged drought. Communities in Turkana and Marsabit, in particular, often face recurring challenges that threaten food security, livelihoods, and the survival of their livestock. Against this backdrop, the State Department for Irrigation, working with the National Treasury and the respective county governments, has stepped forward with a program designed to make a lasting difference. The Drought Resilience Program in Northern Kenya is a flagship initiative aimed at turning vulnerability into resilience. Its vision is to equip these regions with the infrastructure, resources, and systems they need to withstand the shocks of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns. This week, key deliberations were held to ensure the program moves forward with renewed commitment and expanded support. Steering the Conversation Toward Solutions The meeting brought together a wide spectrum of stakeholders, some physically present...

The National Irrigation Authority is expanding irrigated farming in Nyeri County through major strategic projects aimed at transforming agriculture into a reliable and profitable venture.  On Wednesday, the Authority hosted the Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Mugaa Eric, for a visit that highlighted both progress and promise. The tour included an inspection of the Changachicha Irrigation Project in Othaya and the official launch of the Hika Irrigation Project in Mathira. This marked an important step forward in the government’s plan to ensure food security, improve household incomes, and strengthen rural economies. By investing in irrigation, the Authority is reducing dependence on rainfall and protecting farmers from the risks of climate change. Changachicha Irrigation Project: A Game-Changer for Othaya The Changachicha Irrigation Project is one of the largest undertakings in Nyeri, with the capacity to transform farming for about 1,600 households. The pro...

The Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation has continued to expand its footprint in Nyeri County through the launch of the Hika Irrigation Project and inspection of the Changachicha Irrigation Project.  The Principal Secretary for Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, together with the Cabinet Secretary, visited Mathira to witness the progress and officially unveil new initiatives. This effort marks another bold step in transforming farming into a more reliable and profitable venture for local communities. The projects are expected to strengthen food security, create income opportunities, and reduce farmers’ reliance on unpredictable rainfall. For years, farmers in the area have faced the challenge of inconsistent weather patterns. By introducing structured irrigation, the Ministry aims to guarantee that high-value crops can thrive all year round, bringing stability to households and boosting the region’s economy. The Promise of the Hika Irrigation Project The newly launched Hika Ir...

On Monday, the Principal Secretary for Irrigation, CPA Ephantus Kimotho, welcomed a high-level delegation of senior representatives from United Nations agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The meeting centered on a bold national blueprint; the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan (NISIP); that seeks to redefine Kenya’s irrigation future. This was more than a courtesy call. It was a strategic dialogue between Kenya’s State Department for Irrigation and the UN system, charting a common path to address food security, climate resilience, and inclusive agricultural growth. NISIP: A Vision Anchored in Five Pathways At the heart of the discussions was NISIP, Kenya’s comprehensive irrigation framework designed to bring over 1.2 million acres under irrigation. The plan is not merely about increasing acreage; it is a multi-dimensio...

Development often reveals its power not only in policies but in the lives it touches. On Wednesday, 10th September 2025, Principal Secretary,  State Department for Irrigation, CPA Ephantus Kimotho welcomed World Bank Kenya Country Director Mr. Qimiao Fan to Kwale County for a visit that brought Kenya’s irrigation journey into sharp focus. The mission highlighted progress under the Farmer-Led Irrigation Development (FLID) programme, celebrated community resilience, and underscored Kenya’s vision for sustainable, market-led agriculture. This was not just a review of projects; it was a reflection of how irrigation, when people-centred and inclusive, can transform rural economies. Redefining Smallholder Agriculture through Farmer Led Irrigation Development   At the heart of PS Kimotho’s engagement with the World Bank team was the FLID initiative. Backed by the National Irrigation Authority, FLID has already delivered more than 207 household water pans in Kwale County, reshaping ho...

In the heart of Kilifi and Tana River counties lies one of Kenya’s most ambitious agricultural undertakings, the Galana Kulalu Food Security Project. On a recent visit, Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho welcomed a high-level delegation from the state of Nebraska in the United States, led by Secretary of State Robert Evnen. The visit was more than a ceremonial tour; it was a meeting of ideas, experiences, and aspirations about how nations can confront the challenge of food security in a changing world. A Meeting Rooted in Shared Aspirations Food security has emerged as one of the defining issues of our time. From climate change and unpredictable rainfall patterns to growing populations and the rising cost of living, governments are under pressure to ensure their citizens have reliable access to affordable and nutritious food. It is within this global context that Nebraska’s delegation stood alongside Kenyan officials at Galana Kulalu. Nebraska, known for its advanced irrig...

On Wednesday, the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) head office in Nairobi became a hive of energy and purpose as staff gathered for a transformative training session led by the Deputy Director of Human Resource and Administration, Ms. Victoria Aloo. The event marked a milestone in the Authority’s commitment to cultivating a professional, motivated, and unified workforce. This was not just another training. It was the culmination of a nationwide sensitisation initiative, one that had already reached regional offices and schemes across Kenya. With the head office now completing the cycle, the Authority reaffirmed its belief that the true strength of an institution lies in the capacity and dedication of its people. Building Knowledge, Building the Future The training session was anchored in the NIA’s Human Resource Policy and Procedure Manual, a framework that outlines the standards of conduct, performance, and growth expected of all staff. But beyond policies and procedures, the day r...