54 Million In support of Baringo County Irrigation Scheme

By Henry Nyamweya

Eldume Irrigation Scheme of Baringo County in Marigat Sub-County, has received 54 Million from National Irrigation Board. The funds will be used for rehabilitation and extension of the scheme to increase the outcome this year.

This project is situated along the Marigat – Loboi road in Eldume Location. It is accessible within 10 to 15 minutes’ drive from Marigat trading Centre. The local community farmers usually grow maize, beans, vegetable, onions, Water-melons, tomatoes by canal Irrigation method of application.

This was revealed during a stakeholders meeting at the project site while handing and taking over the site to incoming contractor. Several Government officials, IRRICO International Limited and the Farm beneficiaries attended the occasion which was held on 28/3/2014.

It was a joyous moment for the farmers of Eldume Irrigation scheme as they sat waiting to hear whether their expectations will be answered by Eng. Ogendo the Chief Officer Rift Valley Region of National Irrigation Board.

“Since completion of Phase 1 works, there has been a lot of water in the canals. As a result of this, it has resulted in lots of outcome from the project investment hence poverty reduction within the project area,” said the Eldume Irrigation Scheme Chairman.

The Water Officer from Marigat Sub-County Mr. Omwando commended the farmers for being hardworking by making maximum use of the donor funds of Phase 1.

 He further said that National Irrigation Board has been very kind and generous to the project beneficiaries. As a result, they have acted in a timely manner in terms of funds allocation and disbursement.

“Phase 2 development funds will improve the socio-economic status of the local community upon completion. Therefore, the incoming contractor is at liberty to discharge his duties freely without any fear and exhibit quality work and good workmanship,” Added Mr. Omwando.

Eng Ogembo leading the team to the intake site

The Chief Officer Rift Valley Region of  National Irrigation Board,  Eng. Ogendo gave a brief history of the project funding and at the same time appreciated the input of the local community farmers’ efforts for the good results coming out of Phase 1 implementations.

The contract is valued to an amount of Kenya Shillings Fifty Four (54) Million up to completion of Phase 2. These will cover all the activities mentioned in the project area only as documented. As a result of this an estimated total of 1500 acres of land up from 1000 acres of land are expected to be cultivated for use.

“Farmers whose crops are about to mature should not be disturbed during the implementation of the project. Prior arrangement should be done in favour of the farmers to avoid crop failure”. Said Eng. Ogendo

He stressed that water use during this period should be critically planned between the farmers and the contractor more especially where water diversion is required.

The resident Engineer of the  Project will be Eng. Wilson Chepkonga who will be assisted by Eng. Philip Rotich. The contract period will be 12 working months within this calendar year.

Eng. Kemei of NIB Perkerra appreciated the works to be undertaken by the contractor because it is varied and favorable to the farmers. He cited good working relations between farmers and NIB and promised to assist in constructing the roads within the project area.

The project site was officially handed over by the Project Chairman for commencement of the proposed works for site office construction and actual works implementation. The local administration assured the contractor maximum security and protection of the properties and personnel while working in the project area.

A section of farm field at Eldume irrigation scheme

On behalf of IRRICO International limited, Eng. Stephine Wambua readily accepted the site for commencement of the proposed works as stipulated in the contract document.

He said that IRRICO Company will send relevant professional expertise to the site immediately for the purpose of spearheading the project efficiently. He further said that locally available professional will be considered for hiring where necessary.

At the same time, he requested for maximum cooperation from the management for effective and quality works output. However, he promised to work consultatively and closely with the local community for the betterment of the project owners.

The Engineer promised that the company will strive to complete the proposed works within the shortest time to allow water usage potentially. This will increase acreage and crop production in the next planting season.