The mwea irrigation scheme farmers conducted the irrigation water users association (iwua) elections under the supervision of independent electoral and boundaries commission (iebc):itizen platform, claiming that the funds collected are not being reinvested to improve services within the scheme.
According to Kenya News Agency, Joseph Murimi, a farmer, said there have been no issues with elections, but whoever is elected should ensure on-farm roads are improved as well as monies collected be utilized in giving services to farmers. ‘The levies have not translated into tangible improvements, particularly in the maintenance of on-farm access roads. Most of the roads within the expansive Mwea Irrigation Scheme remain in a deplorable condition, making transportation of produce both difficult and costly.’ He revealed that during the rainy season a 60kg bag of rice costs up to Sh 300 to reach the main tarmac road, calling the new leaders to act immediately.
John Karuigi, another farmer, said they are compelled to pay transporters large amounts due to the poor road network, which significantly eats into their profits, further straining their livelihoods at a time when input costs are already high. He added the election signifies a change to get qualified leaders who will fully present farmers’ issues to the irrigation board, away from the regular clearing and desilting of water canals to facilitate smooth water flow to rice paddies. ‘We expect renovation of canals now that we have new leaders. In addition, they must fully represent us in the irrigation board,’ Karuigi noted.
Elizabeth Kanambiu noted that despite the operationalization of the Thiba Dam, water supply remains insufficient due to climate change and the expansion of rice acreage within the scheme. She denied rumors that the National Irrigation Board is selling water to some units, saying that the shortage is natural and long rains will restore the situation. ‘If there is no rain, there is no water; even the dam relies on rain to ensure enough water storage.’ They call on the government to fast-track the construction of the planned Nyamindi Dam to enhance water storage capacity and guarantee consistent supply during dry spells.
The National Irrigation Authority (NIA) supported the election process in terms of logistics to ensure a smooth farmers election of Line and Unit Leaders. The IWUA elections align with Kenya Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) by strengthening farmer-led governance structures, improving irrigation service delivery, and promoting sustainable agricultural productivity and food security.
