The Kiarutara/Mwago irrigation project in Gatanga Sub County, Murang’a, received a significant boost from the national government.
Water pipes valued at Sh. 10 million were provided by the Ministry of Water and Irrigation, aimed at enhancing irrigation farming in the region.
During a recent visit to the project, Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho expressed his appreciation for the project’s role in enhancing food security since its establishment in 2010.
He emphasized the importance of the newly provided water pipes, which will replace old, dilapidated ones and expand the coverage area of the project.
Kimotho stressed the necessity of installing water meters for project leaders to ensure efficient water usage and to generate revenue for covering production costs.
He commended the project’s resilience in overcoming various challenges and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting similar initiatives nationwide.
“This project is commendable, and the government is dedicated to bolstering irrigation farming endeavors across the country,” stated Kimotho during his visit.
The project, spanning an area of 11.5 square kilometers and serving a population of 11,000, currently produces 1,300 cubic meters of water daily.
It has enabled local farmers to cultivate avocados, tomatoes, and upland arrowroots, as well as rear dairy cows and pigs, utilizing water sourced from the Ragia and Kimakia rivers.
The chairman of the project, Afro Ngaruiya, highlighted efforts to combat meter theft by implementing pipe locators to detect illegal connections.
Gatanga MP Edward Muriu commended the project and emphasized the potential for increased agricultural productivity with government support.
Muriu urged the government to initiate more water projects in the sub-county, emphasizing the need to reciprocate the locals’ contribution to water resources, such as those from the Ndakaini dam, which primarily benefit Nairobi.
Responding to Muriu’s concerns, the CEO of Athi Water Development Works Agency, Eng. Joseph Kamau outlined plans for additional water projects in Gatanga Sub County.
These initiatives include connecting water from the Ndakaini dam to various areas through the Gatanga Water Company, enhancing water accessibility for local residents.
The provision of water pipes and government assistance marks a significant step towards improving water infrastructure in Gatanga Sub County, ultimately contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity and livelihoods in the region.
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