The government has disbursed Sh6 million to the Weiwei Irrigation Scheme in West Pokot County, marking a major step in the revitalisation of agriculture in arid and semi-arid regions. The funds, presented by the Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development, Kello Harsama, aim to expand production and improve livelihoods under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
This strategic intervention seeks to increase agricultural yields from 800,000 tonnes to over 2 million tonnes through the development of critical infrastructure, farmer training, modern equipment acquisition, and the establishment of post-harvest handling and value addition facilities. The investment is also aligned with environmental goals, supporting ongoing conservation efforts in the Cherangany Hills catchment area.
“This initiative is more than just an agricultural programme. It is a powerful tool for socio-economic transformation and community empowerment,” said PS Harsama during the cheque handover.
The Managing Director of the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA), Sammy Naporos, welcomed the funding, noting it as a turning point for modernising agriculture in the region. He stressed KVDA’s commitment to transparency and effective use of the resources, which will support the expansion of irrigation infrastructure and development of sustainable value chains.
Farmers, many of whom have struggled with outdated equipment and unpredictable weather, expressed optimism, calling the support timely and impactful.
The Weiwei Irrigation Scheme, initiated in the late 1980s through a Kenya-Italy partnership, has grown from 70 hectares to over 600 hectares of irrigated land. Its third phase alone added 325 hectares and supports more than 600 farming households. The project has created over 3,000 jobs, improved school enrolment, and reduced insecurity by involving youth in agriculture.
The recent funding further cements Weiwei’s status as a flagship development initiative under Vision 2030. It demonstrates how strategic investment, underpinned by the BETA agenda, can transform food security, rural livelihoods, and national resilience.
Present at the event were Regional Development Chair Lochakapong Peter, KVDA Chairman Mark K. Chesergon, Director for Regional Development Ms. Wanjiku Manyatta, and other officials who praised the initiative as transformative for West Pokot and beyond.
