By Winnie Chemutai, SouthriftEye Agriculture Correspondent
Garissa, Kenya — August 28, 2025
Garissa County has taken a historic leap toward agricultural transformation with the official launch and commissioning of the Bulla Adeey/Cadey Irrigation Scheme. The project, handed over by Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh, PS for Agriculture, alongside Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa, is set to benefit 500 smallholder farmers across 1,500 acres, reinforcing the county’s position as a future hub for productive and sustainable agriculture.
“This rehabilitation marks a new chapter in Garissa’s journey toward agricultural prosperity,” Dr. Ronoh said, addressing a crowd of local leaders, farmers, and youth representatives during the commissioning ceremony. He emphasized that the project is not just about irrigation infrastructure but also about empowering farmers and building community resilience.
Modern Infrastructure Meets Climate-Smart Practices
Phase 1 of the scheme features a solar-powered pump capable of irrigating 27.9 acres daily, ensuring water efficiency and sustainability in this semi-arid region. Key infrastructure developments, including water canals, storage tanks, and distribution networks, are complemented by farmer training programs designed to boost productivity, optimize resource use, and implement climate-smart farming practices.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with Kenya’s national goals for food security and climate-smart agriculture under the Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy (ASTGS) 2019–2029,” Dr. Ronoh noted. “We are not only increasing production but also equipping farmers with knowledge and tools for long-term sustainability.”
Youth Empowerment and Agro-Processing Boosts
The scheme also creates opportunities for local youth. Seven youth from each of Garissa’s 30 wards have been employed to support farmers with irrigation management, training, and farm operations, offering them practical experience in modern agriculture.
To enhance value addition and local agro-processing capacity, the government has distributed five oil press machines, 3 metric tons of beans, and 1 metric ton of certified sunflower seeds to county farmers. These inputs are expected to strengthen food security, promote sustainable livelihoods, and encourage entrepreneurship among smallholder farmers.
Community Impact and Economic Opportunities
Local farmers expressed optimism about the scheme. “With this irrigation system, we can now grow crops throughout the year, not just in the rainy season,” said Mohamed Abdi, a smallholder farmer from Garissa East. “It will transform our lives and provide steady income for our families.”
Dr. Ronoh also announced that the Garissa Showground will host annual agricultural events starting next year, aiming to showcase local produce, share innovations, and attract buyers and investors. He urged those occupying the land illegally to vacate immediately to ensure smooth implementation of the initiative.
The Bulla Adeey/Cadey Irrigation Scheme is expected to increase crop yields, enhance food security, create new economic opportunities, and position Garissa County as a growing agricultural hub in Kenya. Beyond productivity, the project is a strategic step toward fostering sustainable agriculture, youth empowerment, and community development in arid and semi-arid regions.
“This is more than an irrigation project,” Dr. Ronoh concluded. “It is a blueprint for agricultural transformation, resilience, and prosperity for Garissa County and beyond.”
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