The County Government of Vihiga has officially launched the construction of the Banja Irrigation Project in Banja Ward and the Hamuyundi Irrigation Project in West Sabatia Ward, marking another milestone in the county's efforts to strengthen agriculture, improve food security, and build resilience against climate change.
Governor Dr Wilber Ottichilo presided over the groundbreaking ceremony, describing the two projects as key investments that will support farmers and improve livelihoods across Sabatia Sub-county and the wider Vihiga County.
The irrigation schemes are being implemented by the County Government of Vihiga through the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP) under the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries. The county has allocated significant resources to both sites:
- The Banja Irrigation Project has received KSh 28,844,300.24 and is expected to benefit about 300 households.
- The Hamuyundi Irrigation Project has been allocated KSh 31,943,206.26 and is expected to benefit approximately 320 households.
- Together, the two projects will reach more than 620 farming households in Sabatia Sub-county.
- Both schemes aim to increase production of African Leafy Vegetables (ALVs) and other crops.
- Reliable water access is expected to allow year-round farming instead of depending on seasonal rains.
- The county expects reduced dependence on produce imported from neighbouring counties.
Official Response
Speaking during the launch, Governor Ottichilo urged farmers to embrace climate-smart agricultural practices to cope with changing weather patterns. He said adopting modern farming technologies, efficient water management systems, and sustainable farming practices would help farmers increase productivity, strengthen resilience, and improve household incomes.
The governor noted that investing in irrigation remains one of the county's long-term strategies for supporting agricultural development and creating economic opportunities for local communities. He reaffirmed the County Government's commitment to implementing practical development projects that empower farmers, improve food production, and contribute to a stronger and more resilient economy across Vihiga County.
County agriculture officials present at the ceremony said extension officers will work closely with beneficiary households to ensure proper use of the infrastructure and to introduce improved crop varieties suited to irrigated farming.
Why This Matters
The projects matter because they address one of the most persistent challenges facing Vihiga farmers: unreliable rainfall and shrinking growing seasons. By providing irrigation infrastructure, the county is giving farmers the tools to produce food throughout the year rather than depending on seasonal rains.
- Year-round farming for over 620 households across Sabatia Sub-county.
- Increased production of African Leafy Vegetables and other staple crops.
- Reduced dependence on produce imported from neighbouring counties.
- Improved food and nutrition security for families and local markets.
- Climate resilience through modern water management and sustainable practices.
That matters in a county where many families still depend on rain-fed agriculture and where drought or delayed rains can wipe out an entire season's work. For low-income households, the difference between one harvest and three can mean the difference between stable meals and hunger.
Community Impact or Background Context
Vihiga has long relied on small-scale farming as the backbone of its rural economy. However, changing weather patterns and limited irrigation infrastructure have made it harder for families to grow enough food or earn steady incomes from agriculture. Previous county efforts to boost farming have included distribution of seedlings and fertiliser, but large-scale irrigation remains limited.
The NAVCDP funding represents a significant step toward closing that gap. By targeting Banja and West Sabatia Wards, the projects aim to reach communities that have historically struggled with water access during dry spells. Local leaders say the schemes could also reduce youth migration to urban centres by creating viable farming livelihoods at home.
Business owners, market vendors and schools in the area say they hope the increased local production will lower food prices and improve nutrition for children and families. Some traders at local markets told our reporter that produce shortages during dry months often force them to source vegetables from neighbouring counties at higher cost.
The two irrigation projects are expected to play a significant role in supporting year-round farming, enhancing agricultural productivity, and improving the livelihoods of hundreds of families in Sabatia Sub-county and other parts of Vihiga County.
Safety & Prevention
Residents and beneficiary farmers should take steps to protect the new irrigation infrastructure and ensure it serves the community for years to come. That includes respecting boundaries, reporting damage quickly, and avoiding practices that could clog or contaminate water channels.
- Keep livestock away from open channels and pump equipment.
- Report vandalism, theft or pipe damage to ward administrators immediately.
- Avoid dumping waste or chemicals near water intake points.
- Follow county agricultural extension guidelines on water use and crop rotation.
- Form water user committees to manage fair distribution during dry spells.
Community groups can also work with county agricultural officers to create simple maintenance schedules and conflict-resolution mechanisms. That may help the projects survive without turning into a source of local dispute.
What Happens Next
The County Government of Vihiga says construction will proceed in phases and that farmers should expect regular updates from the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries. Once operational, the schemes will require ongoing county support, including extension services, seed provision, and market linkages for produce.
For now, the launch marks a significant step toward reducing the county's dependence on rain-fed farming. It is about more than pipes and pumps. It is about giving families a reliable path to food security, income, and resilience in a changing climate.
Share Your Thoughts
We would like to hear from you.
- What crops do you think will thrive most under the new irrigation schemes?
- How should the county ensure fair access to water among all 620 beneficiary households?
- What other wards in Vihiga need similar irrigation investment?
For official updates or project inquiries, residents are advised to contact the Vihiga County Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries.