Over 10,000 Kajiado farmers to benefit from Nguruman Irrigation Scheme

More than 10,000 farmers in Kajiado West Constituency are set to benefit from improved food production and stable incomes.

Principal Secretary for Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, commissioned the Nguruman Irrigation Scheme on Tuesday in Magadi Ward.

The scheme is a major step in promoting climate-smart agriculture in the semi-arid region. Local communities have traditionally relied on pastoralism.

The project uses modern drip irrigation technology.

This has significantly increased farm productivity while ensuring efficient and sustainable use of water.

Farmers under the scheme are already recording higher yields for the domestic market.

The project has led to improved household incomes and better food and nutrition security.

During the commissioning, PS Kimotho said the project demonstrates how well-planned irrigation can transform rural livelihoods.

“Nguruman is a clear demonstration that irrigation, when properly planned, can drive climate resilience, improve food production, and stabilise livelihoods,” he said.

The scheme has also helped reduce human-wildlife conflict. It provides reliable livelihoods and limits encroachment into wildlife habitats.

The State Department for Irrigation began rehabilitating Nguruman Irrigation Scheme Block B in 2024.

This followed an appeal from farmers after heavy flooding damaged canals and water intakes.

The destruction had disrupted water supply and made farming untenable.

Rehabilitation works focused on restoring canals and water intakes. The department introduced river protection measures to reduce flood risks.

These efforts ensure a consistent water supply to farms. The intervention is expected to enhance food security and create employment opportunities.

Farmers in Nguruman are currently growing a wide range of crops. These include okra, pawpaw, mangoes, bananas, kales, tomatoes, and maize.

The scheme also supports integrated crop-livestock systems. This further strengthens household resilience and productivity.

Kajiado West Member of Parliament, Sinkuyo, praised the State Department for Irrigation.

He said Kajiado has the potential to become a major food producer.

“Kajiado can be the next Galana if irrigation is fully embraced and supported,” he said.

The Nguruman Irrigation Scheme aligns with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BeTA). This agenda prioritises sustainable livelihoods and food security at the grassroots.

The government maintains that expanding climate-resilient irrigation is a key priority in addressing climate shocks.

Local farmers welcomed the intervention and capacity-building initiatives. They can now diversify their livelihoods and adopt farming alongside pastoralism.

Irrigation Secretary Vincent Kabuti and Director of Irrigation and Drainage Bernard Onyango were present.

They were joined by officials from both national and county governments.