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Work has started for the construction of a Sh 110 million irrigation project at Kamwangi village in Gatundu North, Kiambu County.

Kamwamba Irrigation Development Project which is being put up at Chania and Mang’u Wards is funded by Kiambu County government through National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NAGRIP).

The project will see water drawn from River Githobokoni used for irrigation activities thereby facilitating faster growth of crops.

Already, Visrom Company Limited, the contractor has done 1-kilometer excavation works and will commence laying of pipes this week with an aim to have the project completed before July next year.

The major irrigation project that is hoped to revolutionize agricultural production in a bid to enhance food security in the county will see at least 84 hectares of land irrigated to facilitate double production of crops such as bananas.
 
Farmers who spoke to journalists could not hide their joy saying that the project was an impetus to their hard work pointing out that they will now be able to earn from their toil.
 
They stated that having a consistent supply of water would make the area food secure as the rain is usually inadequate arguing that most of them have become poor because of lack of water. 
 
The farmers led by Stephen Mwaniki further acclaimed establishment of the project saying it will create new job opportunities that will in turn improve their economic status.
 
“We are thankful to the government for remembering us after waiting for so long. We had started this project but it flopped due to financial constraints. Now that it is being done, our hope for double production in our farms is high,” said Mwaniki.
 
The irrigation project is among the flagship infrastructure projects that the devolved unit is undertaking as part of its strategy to develop major alternative food production areas across the county.
 
Joram Ng’ang’a, the contractor’s representative said the project is expected to benefit 836 households and a total direct beneficiary summing up to 4,180 farmers.
 
Kiambu governor James Nyoro who commissioned the project last month said that his administration is determined to ensure farmers are able to plant and harvest crops for both domestic and commercial purposes with ease.
 
“My government is determined to ensure that every farmer within this area is able to plant and harvest bananas among other crops for domestic and commercial purposes, as a way of improving water security, greater sustainability, increased production and enhanced market access opportunities,” the governor said.