Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho Kimani during the construction of two bridges within the Bura Irrigation Scheme in Tana River County
Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho Kimani has launched the construction of two bridges within the Bura Irrigation Scheme in Tana River County and issued Green Cards covering more than 2,000 acres to 720 farming families.
The bridges, to be built at Villages 2 and 6, were launched during a visit by the Principal Secretary, who was accompanied by Bura MP Yakub Adow Kuno, officials from the State Department for Irrigation, National Irrigation Authority officers led by Chief Executive Officer Charles Muasya, and local leaders.
Speaking during the event, Kimotho said the visit was aimed at implementing a Presidential directive to improve irrigation infrastructure and secure land ownership for farmers through the issuance of Green Cards.
He said the government remains committed to improving agricultural productivity and livelihoods within the Bura Irrigation Scheme.
Kimotho announced that the government has allocated KSh55 million for the construction of the Hirimani Bridges linking Villages 2 and 6.
He said the project has an implementation period of one year, although the contractor is working towards completing the works within six months.
The Principal Secretary also directed the continued desilting of irrigation canals and the clearing of bushes to improve water conveyance and operational efficiency within the scheme.
He said at least 10 kilometres of access roads would be upgraded to ease the movement of farmers, agricultural inputs and produce.
Kimotho further underscored the importance of physical planning and land mapping in supporting orderly development and sustainable agricultural production within the irrigation scheme. He said the issuance of Green Cards would enable farmers to secure ownership of their land and invest in agricultural activities.
Bura MP Yakub Adow Kuno commended the State Department for Irrigation, led by Kimotho, for addressing farmers' concerns and advancing the implementation of irrigation infrastructure projects in the area.
According to the State Department for Irrigation, the Hirimani Bridges are expected to improve access and safety within the scheme, reduce travel time, enhance surveillance of the main canal during the rainy season, and help reduce flooding and crop damage on farms located near the Hirimani Laga.
The Village 2 Bridge will consist of a double-span 20-metre reinforced concrete girder bridge and approach roads. The Village 6 Bridge will comprise a double-span 20-metre reinforced concrete girder bridge, two single-cell box culverts measuring 4.0 metres by 2.0 metres on both sides within the hydraulic lines of adjacent lagas, and approach roads connecting the structure to surrounding areas.
The State Department for Irrigation said the project is expected to strengthen irrigation operations, improve accessibility and support increased agricultural productivity within the Bura Irrigation Scheme.
