Nandi taps water resources to transform farming
The proposed Chepkongony–Kapkitony Irrigation Project in Nandi County will focus on improving water storage and distribution to expand irrigation farming and strengthen agricultural production in Aldai Constituency.
The project plans to rehabilitate existing irrigation infrastructure, install a solar-powered pumping system, construct three water storage tanks and extend the gravity-fed irrigation network. These improvements are intended to provide farmers with more reliable access to water and reduce their dependence on rainfall.
Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho led officials from the State Department for Irrigation and the National Irrigation Authority during a public participation exercise to gather residents’ views on the proposed development.
The project has an estimated irrigation potential of 200 acres and is expected to benefit approximately 800 households. Improved access to irrigation water is expected to enable farmers to increase crop production, diversify their agricultural activities and explore opportunities in commercial farming.
Water storage and distribution infrastructure plays an important role in managing available resources, particularly in areas where agricultural production depends heavily on seasonal rainfall. By improving the capacity to store and deliver water, the proposed project seeks to help farmers maintain production during dry periods and reduce the effects of unpredictable weather patterns.
The planned solar-powered pumping system is expected to support water delivery while reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Solar technology can help lower pumping costs, although its long-term effectiveness will depend on proper maintenance, efficient operation and responsible water use.
The construction of three additional storage tanks will improve the capacity to hold and distribute water, while the expanded gravity-fed network is expected to strengthen supply to the targeted farming areas. Together, these interventions aim to improve the reliability of irrigation services and support more efficient use of available water resources.
Beyond agricultural production, the project is expected to create employment opportunities, improve household incomes and stimulate economic activities linked to farming, transportation and the marketing of agricultural produce.
Public participation is a key part of the planning process, providing residents with an opportunity to contribute their views, raise concerns and help shape decisions about the proposed infrastructure. Community involvement is essential in irrigation schemes because beneficiaries play an important role in maintaining shared facilities and ensuring responsible water allocation.
Once implemented, the project will require effective management arrangements to minimise water losses, promote equitable distribution and maintain the infrastructure. Protecting the water sources supplying the scheme will also be important in sustaining irrigation activities and ensuring the resource remains available for future agricultural needs.
The Chepkongony–Kapkitony initiative highlights the role of water resource management in supporting agricultural development and rural livelihoods. By combining improved storage, efficient distribution systems and community participation, the project aims to establish a more dependable foundation for irrigation farming, food security and economic growth in Aldai Constituency and the wider Nandi County.
