By TCD DIGITAL.
Kitui County is making strides in addressing food insecurity by promoting irrigated agriculture. Senior county officials, including the Minister for Water and Irrigation Peter Nkunda, the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Dr. Stephen Kimwele, and the Chief Officer for Irrigation Brettah Mwangangi, recently toured several farming areas to assess and support ongoing irrigation projects.
The officials visited farmers in Thitha (Kivou Ward), Thunguthu (Kyuso Ward), and the Wikithuki Irrigation Scheme (Tseikuru Ward). They were accompanied by officers from USAID-STAWI, led by Chief of Party Mr. Robert Kisyula, to explore potential collaborations aimed at enhancing irrigated agriculture and addressing food and nutrition insecurity in the region.
Dr. Stephen Kimwele assured the farmers of the county administration’s commitment to promoting irrigated agriculture through modern farming technologies and the provision of free extension services. “Governor Dr. Malombe’s administration is dedicated to supporting our farmers by introducing advanced farming methods and ensuring they receive the necessary support to succeed,” he stated.
Minister Peter Nkunda highlighted the county’s plans to revive the 5,000-acre Wikithuki Irrigation Scheme. In partnership with USAID-STAWI and other stakeholders, the county aims to install a solar power system to mitigate the high cost of electricity, which has led to frequent service interruptions. “The introduction of solar power will ensure a reliable and cost-effective energy source for the irrigation scheme,” Nkunda explained.
The visit also included engineers from the county irrigation department, led by Eng. Paul Kaleve, and Mwingi North Sub-county Administrator Mwende Robert, among other county government officials. This initiative underscores Kitui County’s dedication to leveraging partnerships and modern technologies to boost food security and support local farmers.
The collaboration with USAID-STAWI and other stakeholders is expected to bring sustainable agricultural practices to the forefront, benefiting the entire county and ensuring a more food-secure future for its residents.
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