Building Resilience: Kenya's Strategic Water Management for Food Security

Building Resilience: Kenya's Strategic Water Management for Food Security

Water, Sanitation and Irrigation CS Eric Mugaa  during the launch of the Water Resource Authority strategic plan.

By MAXIMILLA WAFULA 

The COUNTY DIARY NEWS 

Nairobi , 25th October - 2024 -  In a decisive move toward ensuring food security, Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing water management in Kenya. Speaking at the launch of the National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority (NWHSA) strategic plan, Mugaa outlined a clear roadmap aimed at mitigating the ongoing challenges posed by droughts and floods.

Mugaa emphasized that developing robust water storage infrastructure is essential for breaking the nation’s reliance on unpredictable rainfall. “Water storage is the only way this country can stop relying on rainfall to be productive,” he stated. He called for significant investments in water harvesting, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, to ensure that Kenyans can access water during dry seasons.

The strategic plan, spanning from the Financial Year 2023 to 2027, aims to mobilize Sh60 billion over five years. It addresses urgent issues such as climate change, flood control, and sustainable water management. “These challenges are opportunities for us to learn and collaborate,” Mugaa remarked, highlighting the need for innovative solutions in water resource management.

Among the ongoing infrastructure projects discussed were the Siyoi Muruny' Dam, Soin-Koru Dam, Umaa Dam, and Thwake Dam. Mugaa pointed out that uncertain rainfall patterns necessitate these developments, reinforcing the government’s proactive approach to water management.

The strategic plan was shaped through extensive consultations with stakeholders, ensuring that it aligns with the goals and responsibilities of various agencies. “We have enshrined consistency and accountability,” Mugaa asserted, stressing the importance of clearly defined roles to avoid overlap and inefficiencies.

With this initiative, the government aims not only to address immediate water needs but also to lay a strong foundation for future food security in Kenya, marking a pivotal step towards a more resilient agricultural sector.