The proposed Lower Turkwel Irrigation Project is set to put more than 3,000 hectares under irrigation in Turkana and West Pokot counties.
By harnessing the waters of River Turkwel, the project is expected to boost food production, create employment opportunities, strengthen climate resilience, and support sustainable livelihoods in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).
The project follows a directive by President William Ruto that it be implemented to enhance the development of the Lower Turkwel Irrigation Scheme as a strategic intervention to address food insecurity and also promote peace and stability in the region.
Speaking during a high-level consultative meeting on the project held at the Hazina Trade Centre in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Ms. Beatrice Askul Moe, said irrigation remains central to the Government’s strategy of transforming ASAL regions and delivering on the food security pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
“Food security is a core priority of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. Through targeted irrigation investments such as the Lower Turkwel Irrigation Project, the Government is unlocking the productive potential of ASAL regions, creating jobs, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods while fostering peace among communities,” said Askul.
The meeting brought together Governors Simon Kachapin, and Jeremiah Lomorukai, of West Pokot and Turkana counties respectively, area Members of Parliament, and senior Government officials to deliberate on the establishment and coordinated implementation of the project.
The Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Mr. Kello Harsama, underscored the Government’s commitment to inclusive, people-centred development in line with BETA.
“The Lower Turkwel Irrigation Project reflects the Government’s resolve to translate presidential directives and policy commitments into tangible outcomes for communities. By working closely with county governments and local communities, we are strengthening food security, building climate resilience, and promoting lasting peace and cooperation along the Turkana/West Pokot border,” said Mr. Harsama.
Discussions focused on technical coordination, institutional arrangements, and the role of the project in enhancing shared prosperity and reducing resource-based conflicts in the region.
The leadership of both Turkana and West Pokot counties expressed their support for the project, paving the way for the next phase of public participation. Community sensitisation and engagement forums are set to commence in the border areas to ensure transparency, inclusivity, and strong community ownership.
The consultative meeting was attended by among others Dr. Augustine Cheruiyot, Senior Advisor and Head of the Presidential Economic Transformation Secretariat; John Munyes Kiyong’a, Special Envoy for Peace in the Ateker Region and Members of Parliament Dr. John Ariko Namoit (Turkana South), Dr. Protus Akujah (Loima), Titus Lotee (Kacheliba), and Peter Lochakapong (Sigor). KVDA Chairman Mr. Mark Chesergon and Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) Acting Managing Director Moses Kipchumba.
By Charles Matacho
