LAIKIPIA — In response to the persistent drought that has plagued Laikipia County, leading to severe food shortages, farmers in the Matanya area have adopted innovative water harvesting techniques to sustain their crops.
According to Kenya News Agency, an India-based organization focused on combating climate change challenges, around 25 farmers in Laikipia Central have begun constructing shallow farm ponds to collect runoff and rainwater. These ponds, approximately a meter deep, can retain water in the ground for up to four months, enhancing soil moisture and ensuring crops can survive dry spells.
The pilot project, a collaboration between the Akina Foundation and Egerton University, aims to boost agricultural productivity by providing farmers with drought-resistant crops, including maize, sorghum, millet, sweet potatoes, and Napier grass. Patrick Ndumia, a local farmer and beneficiary of the technology, reported a significant turnaround in his agricultural output. After years of failed harvests due to drought, the introduction of farm ponds enabled him to secure a sufficient harvest last year.
Farmers like Ndumia have experienced the benefits of these water harvesting measures firsthand, noting an improvement in soil moisture and crop resilience during dry periods. Muriithi Kihuria, another farmer who adopted the pond technology, emphasized its role in supporting his family and urged fellow residents to adopt these methods to combat food insecurity.
Julia Nyeri, also a beneficiary, praised the initiative for its impact on alleviating hunger within the community and acknowledged the value of receiving drought-resistant crops from Egerton University. Avijit Malik, director of the Akina Foundation, highlighted the affordability and effectiveness of farm ponds in dry regions, noting their potential to address water scarcity and enhance food production.
Since the launch of the pond farming pilot in July 2023, 31 ponds have been constructed in Matanya, demonstrating a viable solution to the drought’s impact on agriculture. Malik expressed optimism about expanding the project with additional resources and called for partnerships and funding from agricultural stakeholders to support more farmers in the county.