Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa has publicly confronted a contractor over delays in an irrigation project, questioning the feasibility of completing a 400-meter section within 10 days.
During an inspection on July 26, 2026, Mugaa challenged the contractor's timeline, citing the available equipment and workforce, and urged honesty about the project's progress.
Concerns Over Project Pace
CS Mugaa expressed frustration over the slow pace, stating, "Stop lying to me. How can a 400-meter stretch be done in 10 days with only two excavators and limited gangs? It realistically takes at least 20 days."
The irrigation project is currently 51% complete, with just 60 days remaining to finish the works. Mugaa warned against any requests for deadline extensions, emphasizing the government's commitment to timely delivery.
Government Commitment to Completion
"You have had 90 days so far; do not come back asking for more time," Mugaa said, addressing the contractor directly. He assured that financing would not be a hurdle, stating, "Let me worry about the financing."
This project is part of a broader government initiative to expand irrigation infrastructure and boost agricultural productivity nationwide.
Upcoming Irrigation Developments
Earlier, Mugaa led a public consultation for the Ushirika-Umoja Irrigation Project in Kilili, Igembe South Constituency, Meru County, which aims to support over 400 farmers. The project will feature intake works, sedimentation basins, pipelines, and borehole drilling and equipping.
