KVDA Launches Water and Irrigation Projects in West Pokot, Distributes 30,000 Mango Seedlings to Boost Food Security
Sigor Constituency MP Peter Lochakapong welcomed the projects, noting that they have significantly eased water shortages in the region.
KVDA Ag Managing Director Moses Kipchumba and the residents of west Pokot county. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA)
has rolled out a series of water and agricultural projects in West Pokot County, alongside the distribution of mango seedlings, in a move aimed at improving livelihoods, enhancing food security, and strengthening climate resilience in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).
The initiatives include the commissioning of boreholes in Kosholoi and Kimanau villages, the launch of the Pachu water pan, distribution of 30,000 mango seedlings under the Weiwei Irrigation Scheme, and the provision of 55 solar-powered water pumps valued at Sh9 million to support farming activities.
Speaking during the launch in Sigor Constituency, KVDA Acting Managing Director Moses Kipchumba said the authority, under the Ministry of East African Community, ASAL and Regional Development, is focused on transforming communities through sustainable investments.
“At Kasholoi, we have launched a borehole producing over 5,000 litres of clean water per hour. The water has been tested and confirmed safe for domestic use and will significantly improve the quality of life for residents,” Kipchumba said.
He noted that KVDA has implemented more than 33 development projects across West Pokot, aimed at improving access to clean water for both domestic and agricultural use.
Kipchumba added that the authority is working closely with local communities to promote food security and environmental conservation, including the distribution of fruit seedlings to restore degraded landscapes, particularly in fragile escarpment areas.
“These interventions will enhance nutrition, improve food security, and create income-generating opportunities through fruit farming,” he said.
He further revealed that farmers are being supported through capacity-building programmes and solar-powered irrigation systems to enable year-round farming using river water abstraction.
Since 2023, KVDA has invested approximately Sh1.4 billion in development projects in West Pokot County, benefiting more than 200,000 residents through initiatives such as the Weiwei Irrigation Scheme.
KVDA Chairman Mark Chesergon reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to effective implementation of government programmes in ASAL regions.
“Our goal is to ensure that residents in marginalised areas live dignified lives comparable to other parts of the country through improved access to water, food production, and income-generating opportunities,” Chesergon said.
Sigor Member of Parliament Peter Lochakapong welcomed the projects, noting their immediate impact on the region.
“These initiatives have significantly eased water shortages and will go a long way in improving livelihoods for our people,” he said.
The projects form part of broader government efforts to address water scarcity, boost agricultural productivity, and build resilience among communities in Kenya’s ASAL regions.
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