THE HIHA–KIRUKA IRRIGATION PROJECT: INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES, SECURING THE FUTURE

Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority joined stakeholders and the community of Kariara in Rutune, Rugi Ward – Mukurwe-ini Sub-County, Nyeri County for a Public Participation forum on the ongoing Thiha–Kiruka Irrigation Projec.The event was also attended by Mukurwe-ini MP, Hon John Kaguchia P.G, MP and the local administration.

TARDA’s technical team engaged the community on the project’s scope, design, and work plan, addressing stakeholder concerns and reinforcing the importance of community ownership in project implementation. The Project scope includes:
Rehabilitation and expansion of the intake structure
Repair and upgrading of the existing mainline
Rehabilitation of Kanyangate, Gitondo, and Gatitu feeder lines
Extension of the Gatiko–Usawa feeder
Laying of new distribution pipelines

The project aims to expand irrigation coverage from 33 hectares to 65 hectares, directly benefiting 500 farming households and indirectly reaching over 2,500 people through:
Enhancing agricultural productivity through reliable, year-round irrigation.
Supporting youth and women in modern farming.
Strengthening household incomes and local food security.
Building resilience against climate variability.

The Thiha–Kiruka Irrigation Project is a flagship example of how basin-level interventions can deliver tangible socio-economic transformation while contributing to Kenya’s national food security and climate resilience agenda.We thank the Mukurwe-ini community for their insight, enthusiasm, and unwavering readiness to walk this journey of progress with us. The voices we heard reaffirm the power of inclusive planning, local knowledge, and collaborative development.