Nairobi:The Government of Kenya is enhancing its collaboration with the World Bank to expedite the implementation of significant water, sanitation, and irrigation projects intended to improve water security, boost food production, and enhance climate resilience nationwide.
According to Kenya News Agency, Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa, accompanied by Principal Secretary for Water and Sanitation Julius Korir and Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho, engaged in discussions with a World Bank delegation led by Anna Wellenstein, Regional Practice Director for the Planet Department in Eastern and Southern Africa. The meeting took place at Maji House in Nairobi.
The discussions focused on reviewing the progress of key World Bank-supported programs and identifying ways to accelerate their implementation and enhance their impact on local communities. Among the projects under review was the Mwache Dam Project in Kwale County, an initiative aimed at bolstering water supply and security in the Coast region.
Additionally, the officials examined the Horn of Africa Groundwater Resilience Programme, which targets the counties of Turkana, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa. This program seeks to improve access to reliable groundwater resources and enhance the resilience of communities in water-scarce areas.
The meeting also assessed the progress of the Lower Nzoia Irrigation Project and the Kenya Resilience Irrigation for Sustainable Economies (K-RISE) Programme. These irrigation projects aim to expand agricultural production, increase the land area under irrigation, and fortify the resilience of farming communities against climate-related challenges.
The Government emphasized the importance of these investments in improving water and food security and supporting sustainable economic development in vulnerable communities. The Ministry confirmed its commitment to working closely with the World Bank and other development partners to expedite the completion of strategic water, sanitation, and irrigation projects. The partnership is deemed essential for ensuring that these investments lead to sustainable and tangible benefits for communities across Kenya.
