Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho has urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts in conserving water towers, protecting catchment areas, and preserving forests. He described these actions as essential for strengthening water security and sustaining agricultural production across the country.
Kimotho spoke during national celebrations to mark World Water Day 2026 in Meru County. He linked healthy ecosystems directly to reliable water for irrigation and food production.
Conservation as Foundation for Irrigation
Kenya’s water towers, including the Aberdares, Mt. Kenya, and Mau Complex, supply most rivers and dams used for irrigation. Degradation from deforestation and encroachment reduces water flows, especially during dry seasons.
The PS stressed that protecting catchments and forests ensures steady water availability. This supports the government’s plan to expand irrigated land from the current 664,000 acres to over 1.2 million acres by 2030.
Without strong conservation, even new dams and water pans risk running dry. Kimotho called for coordinated action involving communities, county governments, and national agencies.
Inclusive Access for Women and Youth
Kimotho emphasized that irrigation development must reach everyone. Women and youth, who form a large part of the agricultural workforce, often face barriers in accessing water and modern irrigation services.
“Ensuring inclusive access to irrigation services, particularly for women and youth, remains critical,” he noted. These groups drive much of the day-to-day farming activities and hold great potential to increase productivity.
Targeted programs aim to equip them with skills, credit, and technology. This includes farmer-led irrigation schemes and easier financing for small pumps and drip systems.
Closing the gender gap in water access can unlock higher yields, reduce poverty, and promote equity in rural areas.
Irrigation as Climate Resilience Tool
The remarks come as Kenya expands irrigation to counter climate change impacts. Prolonged droughts and erratic rains make rain-fed farming increasingly risky.
The State Department for Irrigation invests in water harvesting, storage, and infrastructure in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). Recent projects in Meru County alone, worth KSh 750 million, target over 5,000 households.
Kimotho said such interventions, combined with ecosystem protection, will boost food security and create jobs.
Government Plans and Next Steps
The National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan (NISIP) guides current efforts. It focuses on large-scale schemes, smallholder systems, and land reclamation.
Stakeholders including the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Kenya Forest Service, and community groups must work together. Public participation in planning ensures projects meet local needs.
As World Water Day celebrations continue, the message is clear: healthy water towers and inclusive irrigation go hand in hand. With urgent conservation and equitable access, Kenya can build a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.
