KAKAMEGA COUNTY HOSTS OFFICIALS FROM THE MINISTRY OF WATER & SANITATION AHEAD OF SMALLHOLDER IRRIGATION PROGRAMME.

Irrigation is vital in boosting agricultural productivity, sustaining farmer livelihoods, and driving Kenya’s economic growth. In this context, Agriculture Chief Officer, Mr. Emanuel Kariuki, hosted a delegation from the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation during a consultation visit in Kakamega County.

The engagement is part of a series of consultations across Western Kenya, including Homa Bay County, Migori County, Kisumu County, Siaya County and Bungoma County, aimed at discussing the proposed implementation model for the Smallholder Irrigation Programme.

The programme seeks to expand irrigation development in the region by leveraging available water resources, reducing overreliance on rain-fed agriculture, and strengthening climate resilience for smallholder farmers.

The consultations also provide a platform to align national and county priorities, explore the cost-sharing approach, and identify suitable areas for implementation to enhance food security and farmer livelihoods, in line with Governor Barasa’s Manifesto agenda.