Ziwa 2 project launched in western Kenya

The Ziwa 2 irrigation project was inaugurated in western Kenya, aiming to irrigate 202 hectares of land and reduce reliance on rainfall for farming. The project, which began in June 2025, is expected to be fully completed by the end of November 2026.

Project benefits 1,000 farmers

The Ziwa 2 project is expected to directly benefit 1,000 farmers from Uasin Gishu County by enabling them to transition from rain-fed agriculture to irrigation-based farming. This shift is anticipated to increase their productivity and income.

Annual income projections

According to government estimates, each household participating in the project could earn an average of 200,000 Kenyan Shillings (about 1,542 USD) annually per acre, thanks to two cropping seasons per year. This income is expected to improve livelihoods and support commercial farming.

Infrastructure improvements

The project has increased the reservoir's storage capacity to one million cubic meters through dredging and embankment reconstruction. Two solar-powered pumping systems, each capable of moving 50 cubic meters of water per hour, have also been installed to ensure a reliable water supply.

Broader economic impact

In addition to the 1,000 farmers directly involved, the project is expected to benefit an additional 5,000 people through employment and related economic activities. Farmers will be supported in managing their farms and accessing markets.

Crops and long-term goals

The project will allow farmers to grow cereals like maize and beans, as well as high-value crops such as spinach, passion fruit, kale, tomatoes, onions, and coffee. A second phase of the project is planned to irrigate an additional 2,000 acres and serve 4,000 more households.

Kenya’s irrigation strategy

The Ziwa 2 project is part of Kenya’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on rain-fed agriculture, which currently covers less than 5% of the country’s arable land. Small farmers, who produce most of the country’s food, often earn less than 3,000 USD annually.

Government funding and expansion

The Kenyan government plans to mobilize 1.5 billion USD by 2030 to develop an additional 200,000 hectares of irrigated land. It also seeks 2.8 billion USD in private investment for hydraulic infrastructure. President William Ruto has announced plans to build 50 large dams, 200 medium-sized dams, and 1,000 small dams nationwide.