Irrigation agency starts work on 10,000ha model farm at Galana-Kulalu scheme
Samples of maize flour at the Galana Kulalu scheme. PHOTO | FILE
National Irrigation Board (NIB) has started developing the 10,000-acre model farm at Galana-Kulalu irrigation scheme ahead of the visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on July 5 for official launch.
The start of the project follows successful field trials to determine the best variety seed to plant on the farm.
The project, currently behind schedule due to insufficient allocation of funds by the exchequer, has been launched by Water Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, paving the way for the growing of maize on the entire model farm at one go.
According to NIB, which is implementing the project, 4,000 acres is being targeted by the end of June, ahead of the planned launch.
Israel is the major financier of the model farm having provided Sh7 billion loan. The plan is one of Jubilee government’s flagship projects, which are supposed to be delivered within five years of its first term.
“We are now ready to plant the entire 10,000 acres after successful trials to find the right seed to plant in this region,” said Thuita Mwangi, chief engineer, planning and design, at the NIB.
The new development happens amid confusion at the NIB following the suspension of the top management, including the General Manager Daniel Barasa on alleged corrupt deals in procurement.
NIB projects to plant 2,000 acres of maize every month and it intends to complete the entire 10,000 acres by September as the laying of pipes and clearing of bush has been concluded.
The trials were meant to select the most productive seed variety out of the 16 that were planted on the 1,000 acres. NIB has settled on three types that yielded 39 bags per acre.
The second phase that involves 400,000 acres was supposed to start after the pilot farm has been completed but apparently this will take longer following the move by the government to cancel the tender calling for bids to develop it.
Mr Thuita said the tender will be re-advertised at a later date after consultation with other State agencies. The board in November sought a company to build the infrastructure on 400,000-acre piece of land.
The firm was expected to have Sh10 billion and show ability to raise Sh122 billion to undertake the project.
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