The ongoing construction of the KSh27 million Ikulya Earth Dam in Waita Ward, Mwingi Central, is expected to ease persistent water shortages and boost irrigated agriculture in the area.
The project is set to benefit residents who currently travel between 7 and 10 kilometres in search of water for domestic use and livestock.
Kitui County Agriculture CECM Mbaya Kimwele said the dam is expected to hold water for up to six months without drying, benefiting approximately 3,000 households once completed.
Beyond addressing household and livestock water needs, the project is expected to support irrigation and encourage residents to adopt climate-smart agriculture through different agricultural value chains.
The availability of a reliable water source is also expected to help farmers expand their agricultural activities, increase food production and strengthen household livelihoods.
Residents have welcomed the project, saying improved access to water will help reduce the long distances they currently travel and create better conditions for farming.
They also expect the Ikulya Earth Dam to reduce the pressure caused by water scarcity and enable more households to engage in productive agriculture throughout the year.
The availability of a reliable water source is also expected to help farmers expand their agricultural activities, increase food production and strengthen household livelihoods.
Residents have welcomed the project, saying improved access to water will reduce the long distances they currently travel and create better conditions for farming.
They also expect the dam to reduce the pressure caused by water scarcity and enable more households to engage in productive agriculture throughout the year.
The Ikulya Earth Dam is therefore expected to play a key role in improving water security, supporting agricultural development and strengthening the resilience of communities in Waita Ward.
