Kenya, Japan move to climate-smart irrigation plan as Taita Taveta targets rice production

Nairobi, Kenya — Kenya has reached out to Japan for technical assistance in developing irrigation and rice production in Taita Taveta, as part of a master plan aimed at promoting sustainable water usage and enhancing agricultural output. Japan's International Cooperation Agency (JICA) met with the country's Irrigation Principal Secretary, Ephantus Kimotho, to discuss collaboration focused on expanding rice production and strengthening the crop’s value chain.

The partnership will concentrate on irrigation development, productivity improvements, post-harvest processes, and creating sustainable markets for farmers. Officials agreed to commission a detailed study to create a comprehensive master plan for rice production and irrigation in Taita Taveta. This plan will examine water resources, suitable farming areas, existing and needed irrigation infrastructure, production methods, market opportunities, and investment requirements, while encouraging efficient water usage.

Taita Taveta possesses the agricultural potential needed for rice production, provided there's investment in relevant infrastructure, management, and value-chain systems. The State Department for Irrigation plans to seek government approval to make Taita Taveta a strategic irrigation development area, which would guide infrastructure expansion and the county's move towards commercially viable rice production.

This cooperation aligns with the government's irrigation expansion agenda, targeting higher irrigation coverage, better water productivity, Farmer Led Irrigation Development, and stronger agricultural value chains. The initiative could also bolster climate resilience in agriculture by improving water management and ensuring more efficient use of irrigation resources amid changing climate conditions.

Increased rice production is expected to bolster food and nutrition security, reduce dependence on imports, and generate employment and income for farmers across various sectors of rice production.