President Ruto unveils extensive irrigation plan for food security and Northern Kenya development
via Tuko2 min read
President William Ruto, during the Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir, outlined a comprehensive irrigation and water infrastructure agenda aimed at boosting food security and transforming Northern Kenya. The government plans to expand irrigation acreage by constructing 50 mega dams, 200 medium and small dams, and thousands of micro-dams nationwide. These projects are projected to bring an additional 2.5 million acres under irrigation and commercial agricultural production within the next five to seven years. Key projects highlighted include developments in the Ewaso Nyiro Basin in Isiolo, the High Grand Falls Dam in Tana River, the proposed River Daua Dam in Mandera, and the Bute Dam in Wajir North. Other initiatives include the Siliki Canal in Garissa, Lowaat in Turkana, Narosura in Narok, and Arror in Elgeyo Marakwet. The President emphasized that these investments are intended to drive prosperity in Northern Kenya, turning previously overlooked areas into strategic centers for food production and economic growth, thereby strengthening Kenya's food security and long-term prosperity. The State Department for Irrigation, led by Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho, affirmed its commitment to these efforts.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
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President William Ruto and his wife, Rachel Ruto, attended the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County, marking the first time a national fete of this magnitude was held in Northern Kenya. The event, themed "Education, Skills and the Future," highlighted the government's focus on innovation and technical training. President Ruto wore an all-white Kaunda suit, while Rachel Ruto opted for a colorful kitenge with a crocheted sweater. Their last-born daughter, Nadia Cherono, also accompanied them. Rachel Ruto emphasized that Madaraka Day reminds Kenyans of the courage and sacrifice of those who laid the foundation for self-governance and development. She also noted the historical significance of holding the celebration in North-Eastern Kenya, affirming that every part of the country matters. During the celebrations, President Ruto renamed the Wajir Stadium after former Member of Parliament and Cabinet Secretary Ahmed Khalif, who died in a plane crash in 2003.
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