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The completion of the Bosto Dam Water and Irrigation Project in Bomet County has been highlighted as a major milestone for the Kenya Kwanza Government’s efforts to boost food security.
Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Zachariah Njeru, expressed optimism about the project during a meeting with representatives from Geo China Engineering and Hunan Engineering Group earlier this week.
Located in the South West Mau Forest on the Kipsonoi River, the multi-purpose dam is poised to serve several crucial functions. Apart from electricity generation, it aims to provide agricultural irrigation and domestic water supply for the region.
CS Njeru emphasized the potential impact of the project on agriculture, stating that approximately 100,000 acres of land in the drier parts of Bomet County will be irrigated for maize and cassava cultivation. This initiative could significantly enhance food production and contribute to reducing food insecurity in the area.
Furthermore, the project promises to deliver clean drinking water to over 700,000 residents of Bomet County and its surrounding areas. This access to clean water is expected to improve public health by reducing waterborne diseases and enhancing overall well-being.
Despite some delays that have hindered the commencement of the project, CS Njeru assured his support in addressing these challenges to ensure the project’s timely implementation. Xu Tianzhao, the Country Manager for Kenya from Geo China Engineering, highlighted the progress made so far and announced that high-level discussions regarding the project will take place during the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Nairobi from May 9th to 11th.
Initially planned to commence in 2018 and be completed by 2021, the project is set to be implemented through the National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority (NAHSA). Among the officials present at the meeting were Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho, Irrigation Secretary Eng. Vincent Kabuti, and NAHSA’s Chief Executive Officer, John Muhia.
The Bosto Dam Water and Irrigation Project holds the promise of not only enhancing food security and providing clean water but also contributing to the country’s energy sector and creating employment opportunities. With renewed commitment and collaboration from all stakeholders, this project could be a game-changer for Bomet County and set a precedent for sustainable development initiatives in Kenya.
