By:Faith Mukundi
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has launched a Sh293 million irrigation project in Kigumo Constituency, Murang’a County, targeting 1,500 households and 750 acres of farmland in an initiative aimed at boosting agricultural production and improving farmers’ incomes.
The Kinyona-Karinga Irrigation Project is expected to provide a reliable water supply for year-round farming, enabling farmers to grow high-value crops, including vegetables, avocados, bananas, tomatoes and French beans.
Speaking during the launch in Kinyona on Friday, October 9, 2026, Kindiki said the project would strengthen food security, create employment opportunities and support economic growth by reducing farmers’ dependence on rainfall.
“Irrigation is crucial to boosting food security, creating jobs, enhancing farmer incomes and accelerating economic development,” Kindiki said.
According to the Deputy President, the project is expected to cover 750 acres once completed, with annual earnings projected to average Sh250,000 per acre.
The initiative is intended to help farmers increase production throughout the year, improve household incomes and supply agricultural markets more consistently.
Kindiki said the government was keen to ensure the project was completed without unnecessary delays so that residents could begin benefiting from the investment as soon as possible.
He also indicated that the government would explore additional funding to extend water supply to neighbouring areas that may not be reached by the planned irrigation infrastructure because of their elevation.
The project forms part of broader efforts to improve agricultural productivity in Murang’a County, where farming remains an important source of household income and economic activity.
Kindiki was accompanied by Lands and Housing Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome, Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina, nominated MP Sabina Chege, Maragua MP Mary Wamaua and nominated Senator Veronica Maina.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, Members of the County Assembly, grassroots leaders and officials from the National Irrigation Authority also attended the launch.
Once completed, the project is expected to expand access to irrigation water and create opportunities for farmers to diversify their crops, increase production and improve their earnings.