Lari Member of Parliament Mburu Kahangara has officially handed over the site for the construction of a key water intake under the Escarpment Belt Irrigation Water Project, marking a major step towards addressing water scarcity in the area.
The project, located at Kinale Forest along the Gatamaiyu River, is expected to benefit more than 10,000 families across several regions within the escarpment belt, including Kijabe, Machani, Mbau-ini, Korio, Kabunge, Escarpment and Gitithia.
Speaking during the site handover, Kahangara said the initiative is aimed at providing a long-term solution to persistent drought that has affected the region for years, particularly during dry seasons.
Construction has already commenced, beginning with the clearing of forest bushes to allow access for machinery and transportation of materials. The works will involve the construction of a weir to hold and regulate water flow before directing it to an intake chamber for distribution to surrounding communities.
The MP noted that both manual labour and heavy machinery are being deployed to fast-track the process, with the intake construction expected to be completed within one month. This will be followed by the conveyance phase to distribute water across the targeted areas.
Kahangara emphasised that the project reflects a shift from reliance on relief food to sustainable solutions that empower residents to support themselves through agriculture.
“When I assumed office, residents asked for long-term solutions instead of relief food. This project will enable them to produce their own food and improve their livelihoods,” he said.
He added that the initiative gained momentum following a presidential visit to Lari, which helped unlock support and accelerate implementation.
Once complete, the irrigation project is expected to promote consistent crop production, reduce the impact of drought, and boost food security within the region.
Local leaders and government officials present at the event, including the Deputy County Commissioner, forestry officers, engineers and representatives from the Ministry of Water, expressed optimism that the project will transform the area’s agricultural potential.
Residents have welcomed the development, noting that access to reliable water supply has been a long-standing challenge that has limited farming activities and economic growth.
The project is projected to be completed within one year, with leaders expressing confidence that it will significantly improve living standards and create new opportunities for families in Lari Constituency.
