Garissa Governor, National Officials Discuss High Grand Falls Dam Project to Tackle Flooding and Boost Agriculture

This morning, Garissa Governor H.E. Nathif Jama Adam, EGH, convened a key meeting with the Principal Secretary for Irrigation, CPA Ephantus Kimotho, CBS, at the PS’s office. The National Irrigation Authority CEO, Eng. Charles Muasya, MBS, was also present at the discussions centered on the transformative High Grand Falls Dam project.

The primary objective of the project is to address the recurring flash floods along the Tana River, which have long posed significant challenges to Garissa County. The dam, which is expected to impound 5,600 million cubic meters of water, promises substantial opportunities for both irrigation and flood mitigation, offering a sustainable solution to the region’s water-related issues.

In his address, PS Kimotho assured Governor Adam that the project is designed not only to mitigate flooding but also to enhance the region’s agricultural productivity. The dam will support irrigation infrastructure across 500,000 acres of farmland, significantly boosting food production. The government is also in negotiations to reduce the project’s costs by KSh 100 billion with private partners, while expanding its scope. New additions to the project include the construction of a hydrogen fertilizer production plant for commercial farming and a 500 MW greenfield solar power system, all aimed at ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.

Governor Adam commended PS Kimotho for his dedication to improving irrigation infrastructure, stressing that the project aligns with the Kenya Kwanza government’s focus on achieving food security. He called for the prompt and successful completion of the initiative, highlighting its potential to uplift the livelihoods of communities in northern Kenya and leave a lasting legacy for the government.

Eng. Muasya also provided an update on the project’s implementation, underscoring the significant benefits it would bring to local communities. The meeting reinforced the importance of collaboration between national and county governments to ensure sustainable development and build resilience against climate challenges in the region.

With the High Grand Falls Dam project, Garissa County is poised for a transformative shift in both flood management and agricultural productivity, positioning the region as a key player in Kenya’s food security agenda.