The government has started plans to rehabilitate Kibarmos Dam Irrigation Project in Mosop Constituency, Nandi County, in a move expected to improve water supply for farming and benefit about 30 households.
The project was discussed during a public participation exercise on Friday, October 16, led by Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho, Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo and Nandi County leaders, including Senator Samuel Cherarkey.
The rehabilitation will involve removing silt, papyrus and reeds from the dam to restore its water storage capacity. The government also plans to repair the weir and spillway, seal leaking sections and improve structures that protect areas downstream.
Others will entail the repairs of the existing water outlets and washout pipes, erection of the infrastructure that will ensure water flows to the farms as well as the construction of the distribution system to aid the irrigation of seven acres of land.
The project will also incorporate activities aimed at ensuring the protection of the catchment area of the dam as well as controlling soil erosion, which leads to siltation of the water reservoir.
With the completion of the project, it is expected that the farmers will enjoy a reliable source of water for irrigation hence will not depend on rain-fed sources of water.
It is hoped that through the project, the farmers will be able to take advantage of the availability of water and grow crops of high commercial value as well as make more income from agriculture.
Plans also include rehabilitating the access road to improve farmers’ access to markets. Better roads and more consistent production are expected to create opportunities for local trade, agricultural businesses and employment.
The government also intends to establish and strengthen an Irrigation Water Users Association to help the community manage the scheme and maintain the infrastructure after rehabilitation.
The association will be expected to support community involvement in the use and maintenance of the irrigation facilities, helping ensure the project remains operational.
The rehabilitation of Kibarmos Dam is expected to support farming activities in Mosop by improving access to water, strengthening food security and creating opportunities for farmers to increase their earnings.
