The Government of Kenya is set to expand Mengit Dam in Nakuru County, aiming to increase its storage capacity from 150,000 cubic metres to 400,000 cubic metres. This expansion, located in Nyota Ward, Kuresoi North Constituency, is expected to provide reliable irrigation water to approximately 1,000 households. The project will enable farmers to access water during dry periods, reducing their reliance on rainfall.
The expanded dam will be equipped with a water reticulation system to distribute water from the dam to farms. This system will allow farmers to grow high-value crops and combine crop and livestock production. The project is part of the Government's efforts to increase agricultural production in the area. By supporting farming activities, the project aims to improve food security and enhance the livelihoods of local communities.
Head of Public Service Felix Koskei inspected the dam on September 28, 2026, as preparations continued for the second edition of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme. During the inspection, Koskei commended the State Department for Irrigation for rehabilitating and redesigning existing dams to meet current water and agricultural needs. He noted that the project would provide farmers with a more reliable water supply during droughts.
Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho highlighted the potential of the expanded dam and irrigation network to create jobs and income opportunities beyond farming. These opportunities may include agricultural inputs, farm services, produce handling, and marketing. The project also includes the development of drip-irrigated kitchen gardens in schools and communities to support food production and efficient water use.
The Mengit Dam expansion project is part of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme. This programme aims to link agricultural livelihoods with the conservation of the forest and its water catchment functions. Officials involved in the programme believe that improved agricultural productivity could provide communities around the Mau with alternative sources of income while supporting efforts to protect the ecosystem.
The project aligns with the Government's wider efforts to address drought, improve food security, and expand agricultural production under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The programme also seeks to enhance agricultural extension services and promote improved farming practices. By supporting farmers in the region, the project aims to contribute to Kenya's overall food security and economic development.
The inspection of the dam was attended by several officials, including Parliamentary Affairs Principal Secretary Aurelia Rono, Secretary for Administration Yatich Kipkemei, Irrigation Secretary Joel Tanui, Kuresoi North MP Mutai Kiprono Alfred, and Nakuru Woman Representative Liza Chelule. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local community, and its implementation is being closely monitored by the relevant authorities.
Key points
- The project aims to provide reliable irrigation water to approximately 1,000 households and support farming across 600 acres.
- The expanded dam will have a storage capacity of 400,000 cubic metres, nearly triple its current capacity.
- The project includes the development of drip-irrigated kitchen gardens in schools and communities to support food production and efficient water use.
