Bunyala – The Lower Nzoia Irrigation Project, a major initiative to enhance rice farming in Bunyala, is set to be completed by the end of February, Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Zachariah Njeru, confirmed during a visit to the Bunyala Irrigation Scheme.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project faced delays due to compensation issues, but is now on track for completion. He praised the patience of the local farmers since the project’s inception, ensuring that irrigation water will be available by month’s end. The Cabinet Secretary commended the farmers for their technological adoption and fertilizer usage under the guidance of Agricultural Extension officers. He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the farmers, highlighting the area’s potential for food production.
Njeru encouraged the farmers to maximize the use of the irrigation water provided in the project’s first phase to bolster their yields and secure government support for the project’s second phase. He also advised on engaging in value addition for higher profits.
Furthermore, Njeru promised collaboration between the national and county governments to provide necessary mechanization tools and equipment. He stressed the importance of embracing new technologies for maximum yield benefits.
Busia Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma expressed confidence that the project’s completion will enhance the Bunyala Irrigation Scheme’s production and contribute to food security. He lamented the current reliance on food imports and underscored the scheme’s potential for creating employment opportunities.
Otuoma called on the national government to assist farmers with essential equipment like tractors and combine harvesters, and to support the County government’s efforts in value addition of rice husks and stalks. He highlighted the establishment of the Cooperatives Development Fund to protect farmers from exploitation.
Budalangi Member of Parliament, Raphael Wanjala, expressed satisfaction that local farmers would now receive irrigation water through gravity, reducing their electricity costs. He praised the construction of a rice factory in Siaya and his efforts to ensure the success of the Lower Nzoia Water Project.
Farmers appealed for government support in providing subsidized fertilizer and improving local infrastructure to enhance production. They also requested the County government of Busia to purchase necessary farming implements.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Irrigation Principal Secretary, National Irrigation Authority officials, and Directors of Western Kenya Rice Mills.
Initiated on June 12, 2018, the Lower Nzoia Irrigation Project, constructed by Sinohydro Corporation Ltd of China, aims to support 12,600 farmers by irrigating 10,000 acres on the left bank in its first phase. The second phase will add another 10,000 acres of irrigation on the right side. This project is expected to generate an estimated annual revenue of Sh4.8 billion, with a shift to gravity irrigation to reduce costs.
The full potential of 20,000 acres under the scheme will be realized soon, as per Scheme Manager Eng. Edwin Manyonge.