Government Discusses Transition to Cost-Effective Gravity Irrigation System at Bura Scheme
Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, CBS, today led a high-level meeting with key stakeholders, including representatives from the National Irrigation Authority (NIA), to review progress at the Bura Irrigation and Settlement Scheme in Tana River County.
The primary focus of the discussions was the scheme’s ongoing development and a proposed shift from the current diesel pump-fed irrigation system to a more sustainable, gravity-based system. This transition aims to reduce operational costs and improve the long-term viability of the project.
Spanning 16,000 acres, the Bura Irrigation Scheme has already developed 7,000 acres for irrigation, with 3,900 acres currently under active cultivation. The scheme benefits around 2,245 farmers, primarily cultivating crops such as rice and maize, and uses surface (furrow) irrigation to distribute water across the fields.
The proposed gravity-fed system, if implemented, is expected to significantly cut down the high costs associated with diesel-powered pumps, which have been a major financial burden for the scheme’s operations. By utilizing natural water flow, the gravity system promises a more environmentally friendly and economically viable alternative, enhancing the sustainability of agricultural production in the region.
“We are committed to making the Bura Irrigation Scheme more efficient and cost-effective for our farmers,” said Principal Secretary Kimotho. “The transition to a gravity-based system is a crucial step toward reducing operational costs and ensuring the long-term success of this important agricultural project.”
The Bura scheme has long been a cornerstone of agricultural development in Tana River County, supporting thousands of farmers and contributing to food security in the region. With the anticipated changes, the government hopes to further increase productivity and improve the livelihoods of local communities.
The NIA and other stakeholders are expected to carry out feasibility studies and detailed planning to ensure the smooth implementation of the gravity irrigation system. The move is part of broader government efforts to modernize irrigation infrastructure and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the country.
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