The Nguruman–Oloibortoto Block B Irrigation Scheme has been commissioned in Kajiado West Constituency, marking a major boost for food production and livelihoods in the region.
The project was commissioned today by the Principal Secretary in the State Department for Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, during a ceremony held in Magadi Ward. He was accompanied by Kajiado West Member of Parliament Sunkuiya George.
Valued at Ksh 396.6 million, the irrigation scheme covers approximately 2,000 acres of arable land and is expected to benefit at least 1,440 households, translating to nearly 10,000 people. The scheme supplies food to Kiserian, Ongata Rongai and major markets in Nairobi, including Marikiti.
The project involves the rehabilitation of the Nguruman Irrigation Scheme to promote irrigated agriculture, improve food production and increase household incomes. It is also designed to strengthen community resilience to drought and climate change through sustainable water management.
READ:
25 arrested in Oloitokitok crackdown on illegal pest control products
Water for the scheme is sourced from the Entasopia and Oloibortoto rivers and is piped over a distance of 51 kilometres, ensuring reliable water supply for farmers throughout the year.
With improved access to water, farmers are now able to grow high-value crops such as pawpaw and onions, boosting incomes and strengthening the local economy. The scheme also supports livestock productivity through irrigated fodder production and crop-livestock integration.
River protection works have been included to stabilize riverbanks and reduce erosion and flooding, helping to protect farms and community infrastructure.
The project is aligned with national food security and drought mitigation efforts under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). It is being implemented over a 24-month period, having started on February 24, 2024, and is scheduled for completion on February 24, 2026.
By Benedict Aoya
