Irrigation farming plays a critical role in Kenya’s agricultural sector, contributing to the economy, food security, and social development. Here are the benefits and significance of irrigation farming in the country:
1. Resettlement of Landless People:
Irrigation projects like the Mwea Irrigation Scheme have helped resettle landless families, providing them with access to land and opportunities for farming.
2. Making Barren Land Productive:
Irrigation has transformed previously arid and semi-arid lands into fertile and productive agricultural areas, increasing the overall agricultural output of the country.
3. Income Generation for Farmers:
Farmers engaged in irrigation farming can earn an income by selling their produce, improving their economic stability and livelihoods.
4.Provision of Employment Opportunities:
The establishment of irrigation schemes creates employment in farming, maintenance, processing, and related activities, helping to alleviate poverty and raise the standard of living for many Kenyans.
5. Creation of Settlements:
Irrigation schemes provide a basis for creating settlements, offering housing and basic services to previously landless populations.
6. Earning of Foreign Exchange:
MKenya exports various crops grown through irrigation, such as chillies, flowers, peas, and fruits, which generate valuable foreign exchange for the country.
7. Saving Foreign Exchange:
By increasing domestic food production, irrigation farming helps reduce the need for food imports, saving foreign exchange that would otherwise be spent on importing food.
8. Development of Infrastructure and Social Amenities:
The development of irrigation projects often leads to the improvement of infrastructure such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, benefiting both the farming communities and surrounding areas.
9. Control of Environmental Hazards:
Irrigation helps manage environmental challenges such as droughts and floods by providing controlled water supply, ensuring that agricultural activities can continue even during dry periods.
10. Enhancement of Food Security:
By encouraging the cultivation of food crops such as maize, beans, and rice, irrigation farming contributes to food security, ensuring a steady supply of staple foods to the Kenyan population
GEOGRAPHY MASTERCLASS