Kisumu: The National Irrigation Authority (NIA) is actively seeking collaboration with development partners in a bid to enhance rice production in Western Kenya. This initiative was highlighted during a recent visit to the Ahero Irrigation Scheme in Kisumu County by the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, who was evaluating current and potential cooperation opportunities in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, NIA Chief Executive Officer Eng. Charles Muasya detailed plans for a partnership aimed at expanding irrigation land at the Ahero and West Kano Irrigation Schemes. The strategy also includes opening up an additional 56,000 acres under the Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme in Migori County. The financial outlay for these projects is estimated at Sh2.6 billion for Lower Kuja, Sh2.1 billion for West Kano, and Sh1.9 billion for the Kisumu Cluster.
During the tour of the Ahero Irrigation Scheme, Eng. Muasya emphasised the need for infrastructural repairs to boost water efficiency and reduce flooding disruptions. Modernisation efforts, including the solarisation of the pumping station, are also planned to cut down on electricity costs. The expansion of Ahero by 800 acres is expected to cost Sh550 million and, together with new high-yield rice varieties from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), aims to increase rice production significantly.
Principal Secretary in the State Department for Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, outlined the national strategy to reduce reliance on rice imports. Kenya's rice consumption is 1.1 million metric tonnes annually, yet production is only 293,000 metric tonnes. The government is prioritising scheme expansions in regions like Western Kenya, leveraging abundant resources like the River Nyando. The planned Koru-Soin multipurpose dam could further increase Ahero's production capacity to 52,000 metric tonnes annually.
JICA President Dr. Akihiko Tanaka praised the Kenyan government's commitment to bolstering food security through enhanced rice production. He assured continued JICA support in technical assistance, infrastructure funding, and capacity building for irrigation projects nationwide. Dr. Tanaka also stressed the importance of accountability in resource management, encouraging effective planning and implementation to achieve substantial outcomes.