The government of Kenya is undertaking a rehabilitation and expansion project at Mengit Dam in Nakuru. The project aims to nearly triple the dam's water storage capacity from 150,000 cubic metres to 400,000 cubic metres. This expansion will enable the irrigation of approximately 600 acres of land. The project is part of the government's efforts to improve agricultural productivity and water management in the region.
Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei inspected the dam on Monday during preparations for the second edition of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme. Koskei commended the State Department for Irrigation for rehabilitating and redesigning existing dams to respond to current agricultural and water management needs. The programme links water security, agricultural productivity, and conservation of the Mau Forest ecosystem.
The Mengit Dam rehabilitation project is expected to provide farmers with a more consistent water supply, particularly during droughts. The project will also support agricultural extension services and improved farming practices. Additionally, the project will contribute to efforts to mitigate drought and strengthen food security while supporting the objectives of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The project will also support school nutrition and environmental stewardship through drip-irrigated kitchen gardens. This initiative aims to promote sustainable agriculture practices and improve the livelihoods of local communities. The government has emphasized the importance of this project in achieving its development goals.
The inspection of the dam was attended by several government officials, including Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs Aurelia Rono, Secretary for Administration Yatich Kipkemei, Irrigation Secretary Joel Tanui, Kuresoi North MP Mutai Kiprono Alfred, and Nakuru Woman Representative Liza Chelule. The presence of these officials highlights the government's commitment to this project.
The rehabilitation and expansion of Mengit Dam is a significant investment in Kenya's agricultural sector. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and improve the livelihoods of farmers in the region. The government's efforts to improve water management and agricultural productivity are crucial in achieving its development goals.
The project is part of the government's broader efforts to improve water security and agricultural productivity in the country. The government has been investing in various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture practices and improving the livelihoods of local communities. The Mengit Dam expansion project is a key component of these efforts.
Key points
- The Mengit Dam expansion project aims to irrigate 600 acres of land in Nakuru.
- The project will nearly triple the dam's water storage capacity from 150,000 cubic metres to 400,000 cubic metres.
- The project is part of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme.
