Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has unveiled an ambitious and transformative irrigation-driven agricultural strategy aimed at ensuring year-round food production, enhancing rural livelihoods, and fortifying the county’s resilience against climate change.
Speaking during a tour of various agricultural sites across the county, Governor Achani underscored the critical importance of sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices.
The coastal county is shifting from traditional rain-fed agriculture to irrigation-based systems as part of a broader effort to boost food security, create jobs, and spur economic growth.
Irrigation-Centered Agricultural Transformation
At the heart of this initiative is a partnership between the County Government of Kwale and the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), through which more than 4,000 smallholder farmers have already been integrated into small-scale irrigation schemes.
The schemes, spread across various parts of the county, aim to increase agricultural productivity and build resilience among farmers in the wake of erratic weather patterns.
Kwale’s arid and semi-arid zones, particularly in Lunga Lunga and Kinango subcounties, have been prioritized in the initiative.
Over 250 acres of land in these areas are currently under drip irrigation, offering a sustainable alternative to the longstanding dependence on seasonal rainfall.
“With the irrigation schemes, arid areas have the potential to transform from a basket case struggling with food security issues into food barns,” said Governor Achani, emphasizing that agriculture remains the backbone of Kwale’s economic development strategy.
Dams and Water Infrastructure for Resilience
To support these efforts, over 25 mega and medium-sized dams have been constructed or rehabilitated, serving as vital water reservoirs for agricultural and livestock use.
Key dams such as Nyalani, Mwena, Silaloni, Mwaluvuno, Kizingo, and Mwakalanga are enabling farmers to irrigate crops throughout the year, marking a shift toward agribusiness and commercial farming models.
“These dams are not just water reservoirs; they are lifelines for our communities. They are catalysts for modern irrigation farming and sustainable livelihoods,” Governor Achani noted.
The county government is also investing in solar-powered water schemes to increase access to potable water for both domestic use and irrigation, especially in remote rural areas.
This green approach enhances energy efficiency while addressing water scarcity and sanitation challenges.
Comprehensive Farmer Support and Climate Resilience
Governor Achani’s administration has also rolled out a wide range of farmer support services, including the distribution of certified seeds, improved crop varieties, fertilizers, irrigation equipment, and mechanized tools such as tractors.
The objective is to improve yields, reduce production costs, and enhance the overall efficiency of the agricultural sector.
“By investing in irrigation infrastructure and technology, we expect to achieve greater food security, reduce poverty, and create employment opportunities for our people,” said Achani.
“We are building a climate-resilient agricultural system that will withstand the increasing threats of drought, pests, and erratic weather.”
The Governor was accompanied by the County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Roman Shera, who echoed her sentiments and called for the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.
Shera emphasized the need for farmers to shift from subsistence to resilient, market-oriented farming systems.
“Reliance on rain-fed farming is no longer tenable,” Shera said. “We must embrace irrigation, diversify crops, and invest in drought-tolerant species suitable for our local environment.”
Farmer Voices: Embracing Change
Farmers across the county have welcomed the initiatives, citing improved productivity and food availability.
Esther Uchi, a farmers’ representative from Kinango Sub County, praised the county government’s focus on year-round cultivation.
“Since the irrigation projects were introduced in Kasemeni Ward, we have been able to grow spinach, eggplants, carrots, and cabbages even during dry seasons,” she said. “These crops are now sufficient for both home consumption and commercial sale.”
Uchi noted that the impact of climate change on rain-fed farming has been devastating, and the new irrigation schemes offer a practical solution to the persistent food insecurity in the region.
She also urged continued investment in leveraging natural water sources such as boreholes, springs, dams, and river basins to guarantee sustainable agricultural production.
Below are photos of Governor Achani inspecting local farms in Kwale County: Credits: KNA
A Vision for Food-Secure Kwale
Governor Achani reiterated her administration’s unwavering commitment to agricultural transformation as a path to prosperity.
She emphasized the role of irrigation in combating poverty, ensuring food sufficiency, and elevating the economic status of smallholder farmers.
“As a county, we are on a mission to unlock our full agricultural potential. We are building a strong foundation for food security, economic empowerment, and climate adaptation,” Achani declared.
With sustained investment, strategic partnerships, and community participation, Kwale County is setting an example of how devolved units can drive agricultural development through irrigation and climate-smart innovations.
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