The Kenyan government is set to broaden its smallholder irrigation programme following positive outcomes in initial pilot projects that have enhanced agricultural productivity and increased farmers’ earnings.
During a visit to the Kandeki Irrigation Scheme in Kirinyaga County on July 28, 2026, Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho highlighted the success of the blended financing model. This approach combines farmer contributions, government grants, and bank loans, creating a sustainable framework now poised for expansion to other areas, including Western Kenya.
Blended Financing Model
Under the scheme, farmers contribute 10% of project costs, the government provides a 40% grant, and financial institutions cover the remaining 50% through loans guaranteed by development partners. This structure fosters farmer ownership and responsibility, as they manage loan repayments and maintain irrigation infrastructure.
Kandeki Irrigation Scheme
The Kandeki project supports around 245 farmers cultivating 225 acres. The farmers have established management teams including managers, marketers, and technical staff to oversee operations and upkeep.
Market Linkages and Support
Unlike fully government-funded initiatives, this mixed financing model encourages farmers to view agriculture as a business. The State Department for Irrigation collaborates with county governments, financial institutions, and development partners to provide quality inputs, extension services, and market access.
Kimotho emphasized the role of Agricultural Commercialization and Industrial Parks (CAIPs) in connecting farmers to reliable markets, enabling them to cover operational costs and potentially expand their workforce.
Strong Loan Repayment and Investment
The programme boasts a 95% loan repayment rate, with some farmers clearing debts in as little as three years despite repayment periods extending up to seven years. Over the past five years, the government has invested about Sh1.3 billion in irrigation projects in the Mount Kenya region.
Plans are underway to extend the programme to Western Kenya following the acquisition of grants totaling Sh3 billion for irrigation infrastructure and farmer capacity building.
Community Engagement and Regional Expansion
Before introducing the model to new areas, the government conducts hydrological surveys and engages local communities and county governments to ensure acceptance and water availability. Discussions with Western Kenya governors have explored varying farmer-government cost-sharing ratios.
National Irrigation Targets
The expansion aligns with the government's goal to irrigate 2.5 million acres nationwide. Currently, approximately 772,000 acres are under irrigation. This target will be met through a combination of large-scale schemes like Galana-Kulalu and Bura, alongside medium-sized dams supporting community projects.
Success Stories and Innovation
The Mwea Irrigation Scheme demonstrates the economic impact of irrigation, producing nearly half of Kenya’s rice with 155,000 metric tonnes annually. The government aims to replicate such success across the country.
Benchmarking visits by farmers have encouraged adoption of modern irrigation and commercial farming practices.
Water Harvesting Initiatives
Efforts are also underway to develop water harvesting projects in semi-arid areas, including water pans to capture floodwaters for irrigation during dry periods, enhancing food security and climate resilience.
