Garissa farmers to benefit from Sh45 million irrigation project aimed at boosting food security
The 1,500-acre Bulla Adey Irrigation Scheme in Kora Kora will draw water from the River Tana to support farmers shifting from livestock to crop farming, becoming Garissa County’s second major irrigation project after the 1,000-acre Raole Canal scheme in Balambala.
The national government has launched a Sh45 million irrigation project in Garissa County to boost food production and improve livelihoods through modern farming.
The 1,500-acre Bulla Adey Irrigation Scheme, located in Kora Kora, will draw water from the River Tana to support local farmers, especially those transitioning from livestock rearing to crop farming. It is the second major irrigation initiative in the county, after the 1,000-acre Raole Canal scheme in Balambala.
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Speaking at the launch, Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa said the project reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening food security, one of the five pillars of President William Ruto’s administration.
"This Sh45 million project is designed to provide farmers with reliable access to irrigation water from the River Tana," said Mugaa. "Food security is a national priority, and by establishing irrigation schemes like this, we aim to boost agricultural productivity across the country."
The CS praised local farmers for growing crops such as sunflowers, horticultural produce, and cereals even in areas far from the river, urging them to fully embrace the new scheme once it becomes operational.
"You are already doing a commendable job feeding the nation. This scheme will only strengthen your capacity," he added.
Value addition
Agriculture Principal Secretary, Dr Kipronoh Ronoh, who accompanied the CS, said the government would provide infrastructure for value addition to help farmers increase profitability. He also delivered 1,000 tonnes of sunflower seeds to the Garissa Farmers Network, with an additional 2,000 tonnes expected.
"We are here to ensure this irrigation scheme is well-designed to deliver high yields. Our goal is not just to grow crops, but to grow food that sustains households and boosts the economy," said Ronoh.
Garissa Township MP Dekow Mohamed underscored the county’s potential to become a national food basket if given sufficient support.
"We have fertile land and access to the River Tana water. What we lack is investment in infrastructure and resources to enable local farmers—many of whom are pastoralists seeking to diversify—to engage fully in crop farming," said the MP.
Other leaders at the launch included Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs Aurelia Rono, Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, Senator Abdul Haji, Woman Representative Udgoon Siyad, and County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo.
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