January 19, 2024 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

Agriculture, Livestock Development and Fisheries County Executive, Dr Antony Apalia presided over the site handover to the contractor for the rehabilitation and expansion of the Katilu surface irrigation scheme in Turkana South Sub-county.

The scope of works includes bush clearing along main and sub-main canal corridors, construction of 2000m earth-lined compacted canals, construction of 10 division boxes with sluice gates, and construction of five footbridges.

Speaking during the handover, CEC Dr Apalia urged the contractor to pace up the project which he said once implemented would help realize the Governor’s agenda on food security.

Dr Apalia further disclosed plans to expand and improve the infrastructure in Katilu and Turkwel irrigation schemes.

“To address challenges affecting Katilu Irrigation Schemes, we will also meet with the National Irrigation Authority and forge a way forward to realize the success of the scheme,” he said.

Dr Apalia also revealed that funds will also be set aside for fodder farming in the scheme which he said would assist reduce conflicts associated with livestock invading farms in the area.

The County Chief Officer (CCO) of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Janerose Tioko, noted that Katilu Irrigation Scheme being a food hub needed an upgrade to increase its output.

“County officers will be on the ground at all times conducting frequent monitoring and review of developmental works being executed to avoid shoddy work,” said CCO Tioko.

She added that the department would collaborate with the farmers to clear the invasive Prosopis plant.

The Katilu Ward Member of Assembly, William Etubon, appreciated the Governor’s commitment to the irrigation scheme as its expansion and improvement would boost food production.
He also appealed for more support from partners and other stakeholders involved in the irrigation scheme.

The Agriculture Director Aaron Nanok, Resident Engineer Oloo Omondi, Chief Procurement Officer Robert Lotaruk, Senior Land Reclamation Officer Peter Loree, Sub-County Land Reclamation Officer Peter Epae, Sub-county Agriculture Officer Samuel Erumu, Katilu Ward Administrator Benard Lennon, and representatives of the scheme were also present.