The Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) has launched the construction and rehabilitation of critical irrigation canals in the West Kano Irrigation Rice Scheme, a major boost to agricultural productivity.
This transformative project aims to tackle longstanding bottlenecks and propel rice production in the larger Nyando Sub-County.
Speaking during the official launch on Thursday, January 29 at Dajo Irrigation Scheme, LBDA Managing Director Wycliffe Ochiaga noted that the initiative seeks to address the barriers limiting farmers.
“This project is a cornerstone for achieving food security. We are systematically addressing the crippling issues of water scarcity, market access, and seed quality,”Ochiaga stated.
“Unclogging these canals and empowering our farmers, we can unlock the highest possible yields.”
The first phase of works, funded through LBDA’s own source revenue streams, will urgently restore water flow to parched fields.
The Authority is also spearheading efforts to secure additional funding from the National Treasury to ensure the project’s longevity and expand its impact.
Area Member of Parliament Jared Okello hailed the launch as a game-changer, urging farmers to venture into large-scale rice production.
“For the first time, our farmers can plan with the assurance of constant water. This rehabilitation is the key that will unlock Nyando’s full potential as a national rice basket,”Okello declared.
He further committed that in the coming weeks, alongside LBDA MD, they will engage the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury to secure funding to solve perennial threats like Lake Victoria water backflow.
A section of the local farmers interviewed welcomed the project, expressing confidence in higher yields and revitalisation upon completion.
