Naremit, April 11, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
To enhance food security in Turkana, the Department of Agriculture and Land Reclamation has officially handed over the site for the rehabilitation of the Naremit Irrigation Scheme in Loima sub-county, a project aimed at bolstering food security in the region.
Hillary Saina, the Sub-County Engineer, outlined the project’s scope, which includes the desilting of 1,200 meters of the main canal, excavation of 3,200 meters of earth canal, lining of 300 meters of a closed main canal, excavation of an additional 600 meters of earth canal, construction of 20 division boxes, and both repair and construction of road crossing structures. The project is expected to be completed within six months.
“The county government is committed to reviving agricultural activities in this area as part of its strategy to address food security,” Saina stated during the handover ceremony.
He urged the project management committee to provide support to the contractor throughout the implementation phase.
Richard Iko, the village administrator for Lokipetot Arengan, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the project. He called for unity among residents to ensure the project’s sustainability and encouraged the use of appropriate channels to resolve any conflicts that may arise during its execution.
“The Naremit Irrigation Scheme was once leading in sorghum production before it was devastated by flash floods,” Iko noted.
John Naperen, chairperson of the Naremit Irrigation Scheme, expressed gratitude to the government for prioritizing the rehabilitation project after a prolonged period of uncertainty in the area.
“I appreciate the government for this initiative and urge the county government and other development partners to focus on flood diversion interventions, as flooding has become a significant threat to the Naremit canal,” Naperen said.
The handover ceremony was attended by several officials, including Mr. Keter, Loima Crop Officer; Ruth Kormait, Chief Procurement Officer; and Pius Ekidor, Senior Accountant.
