Lokori, April 9, 2026 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
The government has announced the immediate construction of the proposed Lowaat Mega Dam in Lokori, Turkana East Sub-county, in a major move aimed at expanding irrigation and strengthening food security in the region.
During an inspection tour of the proposed project site, the Principal Secretary in the State Department for Irrigation, CPA Ephantus Kimotho, confirmed that construction of the dam will commence soon as part of the government’s broader plan to unlock Turkana’s agricultural potential.
The project forms part of the development plan to expand community based irrigation from 6,000 to 10,000 acres, while an additional 45,000 acres will be opened up for commercial farming under the proposed 81.6 meters high Lowaat Dam project.
Addressing farmers from Morulem, Lokubae and Elelea irrigation schemes, The PS, emphasized that expanding Irrigation infrastructure is key to unlocking the region’s agricultural potential and reducing reliance on food aid.
Speaking during a community engagement forum, the County Chief officer for Agriculture and Land Reclamation, David Maraka underscored the need to revitalize the existing schemes to boost food production, improve nutrition, enhance access to animal feeds and restore livelihoods.
“This mega project will cushion farmers in Turkana against climate-related shocks while boosting agricultural productivity,” Maraka said.
PS Kimotho also directed the immediate rehabilitation of the three major irrigation schemes, including the desilting of main intake canals and the clearing of Prosopis juliflora (Mathenge) to enable farmers to resume farming activities.
He further noted that the dam will catalyze complementary investments in road infrastructure, energy access, trade and private sector investment, opening up the region for trade and investment.
Turkana East MP Hon. Nicholas Ngikor commended the State Department for Irrigation for the timely intervention, saying the project will revive stalled irrigation schemes and restore livelihoods for long-term economic transformation in the region.
Leaders present also highlighted the vital role of Irrigation Water Users Associations (IWUAs) in ensuring sustainable management of irrigation schemes, as well as SACCOs, which will help farmers access farm inputs and strengthen market linkages.
The Lowaat Dam, funded under the National Infrastructure Fund, is expected to be completed within three years of the start of construction, with feasibility studies currently being updated to pave the way for the implementation phase.
Also present during the inspection were Aaron Nanok (Director Agriculture), Richard Lokoyan (Director Irrigation and Land Reclamation), Jackson Ewat (Assistant Director, Irrigation and Land Reclamation), State Department for Irrigation secretaries led by Joel Tanui, project engineers led by Eng. Michael Thuita, and members of the National Administration led by Moses Karwigi, the Deputy County Commissioner for Turkana East.
