Garissa:Residents in the village of Gurufa, located in Sabena ward, Garissa County, are transforming the challenges posed by seasonal floods into opportunities for sustainable farming. A group of 36 community members mobilized to establish Taleh Farm during the 2023 October-November-December rainy season. They initially cleared 20 acres of bushland for cultivation, using the floodwaters for irrigation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the group installed an underground reservoir to collect floodwaters for use after the floods receded. This initiative allowed them to plant a variety of crops, including rice, watermelons, onions, and tomatoes, yielding significant profits. Despite challenges such as depleted water reservoirs and the need for alternative irrigation sources, the group sought help from donors. The Islamic relief organization provided a diesel generator and water tank to aid irrigation.
The group faced additional challenges, including wild animals damaging crops and limited access to a community borehole for water. To address these issues, the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) installed an electric fence to protect the crops. The farm’s advisor and treasurer, Fatuma Abdi Dubow, highlighted the learning curve in transitioning from livestock to crop farming, which led to reduced workforce costs over time.
The farm’s success has caught the attention of local authorities, with NDMA Chief Executive Officer Col (Rtd.) Hared Adan praising the group’s efforts. He emphasized that with proper infrastructure and support, arid and semi-arid regions could become significant food producers. The farm is envisioned as a model for local communities to learn about smart agriculture techniques. Despite their achievements, the group faces challenges in finding a market for their produce, such as sunflower seeds, and calls for government intervention to improve infrastructure and market access.
