Construction of the Escarpment Belt Irrigation Project in Lari Constituency is gathering pace, with significant progress reported at the intake site along the Gatamaiyu River in Kinale Forest.
The Sh316 million project, being implemented by the State Department for Irrigation in partnership with local leaders, is expected to transform agriculture and water access in the drought-prone escarpment belt.
Key milestones achieved at intake site
Engineers have already completed river diversion works at the intake point, marking a major step in the early phase of the project. Construction teams have now shifted focus to excavation and rock chiseling to prepare the foundation for a weir and related headworks.
Survey teams are currently on the ground conducting beaconing exercises to determine the final height of the weir, a crucial component that will regulate water flow into the irrigation system.
Once the survey phase is complete, contractors are expected to begin full construction of the weir, with delivery of key materials anticipated in the coming days.
Expanding irrigation to boost food production
The project aims to irrigate approximately 500 acres of farmland using a gravity-fed piped sprinkler system that draws water directly from the Gatamaiyu River.
Upon completion, it is expected to directly benefit more than 1,500 residents, while indirectly supporting over 10,000 families across Kijabe, Machani, Mbau-ini, Korio, Kabunge, Escarpment and Gitithia.
Local farmers have long struggled with unreliable rainfall, which has limited crop yields and economic stability. The new irrigation system is set to provide a consistent water supply, enabling year-round farming and increased productivity.
Pipeline system to distribute water
In parallel with the intake works, preparations are underway for the installation of a conveyance system that will transport water to farms across the region.
This includes the construction of a 1,450-metre pipeline designed to efficiently distribute water from the intake point to designated agricultural zones.
Officials say the gravity-fed design will reduce operational costs while ensuring sustainable water delivery to farmers.
Government strategy on food security
According to Ephantus Kimotho, the project forms part of a broader national strategy to strengthen food security and build resilience against climate change.
“The initiative is aligned with the government’s efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and support communities affected by erratic weather patterns,” Kimotho said during a previous site inspection.
He noted that irrigation projects such as this are critical in reducing dependence on rain-fed agriculture, particularly in areas prone to drought.
Transforming livelihoods in the escarpment belt
Residents in Lari and surrounding areas are expected to benefit not only from improved food production but also from increased income opportunities linked to agribusiness.
The availability of reliable water is likely to encourage diversification into high-value crops, boosting household earnings and strengthening local economies.
In addition, the project is anticipated to create employment opportunities during both construction and operational phases.
Looking ahead
With early milestones already achieved, attention now turns to the construction of the weir and installation of the distribution network.
Officials have expressed confidence that the project will be completed within schedule, delivering long-term benefits to communities across the escarpment belt.
As climate challenges continue to impact agriculture in Kenya, projects like the Escarpment Belt Irrigation scheme highlight the growing shift toward sustainable, infrastructure-driven solutions to secure the country’s food future.
