National government in Kenya has intensified efforts to restore over 1,000 acres of farmland at the West Kano Irrigation Scheme in Nyando Sub-County, Kisumu County, to bolster agricultural production and enhancing food security.

The reclamation project, being implemented with support from the National Irrigation Authority (NIA), targets land that had been submerged due to rising water levels in Lake Victoria. The initiative seeks to expand the area under crop and improve the overall productivity of the scheme.

According to NIA Chief Executive Officer Charles Muasya, the project is part of a broader plan to optimize the irrigation scheme and increase rice production in the region. He noted that restoring the affected land will enable more farmers to participate in irrigation farming and improve their livelihoods.

Currently, the West Kano Irrigation Scheme covers approximately 2,830 acres and produces about 8,000 metric tonnes of rice per season. With the ongoing expansion, production is projected to rise significantly, reaching over 80,000 metric tonnes annually.

The increase in output is expected to generate an estimated Ksh1.9 billion ($14.7 million) per crop season for farmers, providing a major economic boost to the local community.

Speaking during a consultative meeting with farmer representatives, Eng Muasya emphasised the importance of modernising irrigation infrastructure. He said improved water management systems and upgraded facilities would enhance efficiency, increase yields and strengthen resilience against climate-related challenges.

He added that the reclamation exercise will also improve accessibility in the scheme and support sustainable agricultural practices.

The authority has reaffirmed its commitment to fully restoring the 1,000 acres to ensure maximum utilisation of the irrigation scheme. Plans are also underway to expand irrigation coverage and train scheme leaders on effective management and governance.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Robert Ojwang