Baringo: The Principal Secretary (PS) State Department for Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, has announced the government’s initiative to utilize Lake Baringo water for irrigation. The announcement was made during an annual general meeting and prize-giving ceremony at Barwessa Secondary School in Baringo North.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kimotho stated that his department is conducting studies to determine the capacity of water to be distributed in areas affected by banditry and cattle rustling to enhance food security. A test run will be conducted for 1,000 acres in Tiaty and another 1,000 acres in Baringo North. The water body has the potential to irrigate up to 60,000 acres, extending to the neighboring Marigat Sub County.
Kimotho noted that studies are underway because water levels have risen, submerging land near the lake, which could be economically utilized. He was accompanied by Baringo North Member of Parliament Joseph Makilap, who emphasized the project’s importance for local farmers, enabling them to pursue extensive agriculture and move away from activities that negatively impact their livelihoods.
Makilap highlighted that the project will transform the economy and social dynamics of the Tugen, Ilchamus, and Pokot communities, who have historically clashed over livestock pasture and limited resources. He also mentioned that the areas set to benefit from the irrigation project possess significant agricultural potential, which could extend benefits to other regions.
