Residents of drought-affected areas in Lari constituency will receive farming water from the State Department of Irrigation.
Lari Member of Parliament Mburu Kahangara noted that the region possesses fertile soil but endures intense sunlight that impacts food crop cultivation.
He explained that food crops experience stunted growth during early development stages and later wither away, resulting in no harvest for local residents.
Kahangara stated that people living in areas including Mbauini, Machani, Kabunge, Escarpment and Gitithia have relied on government food aid.
However, during a gathering at Gitithia shopping center, the legislator disclosed that he approached President William Ruto to request irrigation water support for the residents.
“We take this moment to appreciate the president for honoring his commitment. Today, we have a project that will provide irrigation water to all these villages at no cost” the MP stated.
According to ministry of water officials, the “Escarpment Belt” project will channel water from Gatamaiyu river through Kinale to Mbauini using gravitational force.
Felister Muiya from the State department of irrigation encouraged locals to cultivate high-value crops such as tomatoes, onions and soya beans.
She mentioned that the government has implemented strategies to combat hunger by providing people with irrigation water.
Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a, Lari deputy county commissioner Samuel Kariuki, Kijabe assistant county commissioner Nancy Kurgat, along with chiefs and assistant chiefs, also attended the meeting.
Similar gatherings were conducted at Matathia and Mbauini.
Thika MP commended Kahangara for swiftly implementing strategies ensuring locals have consistent water for farming.
“Lari residents in this area will now consistently farm and sell their produce. This initiative will create long-lasting positive effects in the region for years to come” she said.
The Thika MP, who is also contesting for the Kiambu governor position in the 2027 elections, advised residents to elect reliable officials dedicated to development.
“Development projects fail when leaders lack genuine concern for society. Please choose honest representatives” she emphasized.
Ng’ang’a reminded residents to remember Ruto in 2027, noting that he has fulfilled promises and responded to community requests.
She also requested residents to support her bid to become Kiambu’s first female governor, assuring them they would not regret this decision.
Kahangara also acknowledged President Ruto for fulfilling his commitment to the Mau Mau road project, noting that numerous roads in the constituency have been paved under this initiative.
The legislator mentioned that the road will enhance the value of farm products by facilitating easier transportation to markets at reduced costs.
“Previously, locals paid Sh 100 for a boda boda motorcycle ride from Gitithia to Nyambari along the Nairobi Nakuru highway, but now they only pay Sh 20″ he said.
Project chairman Sosphiter Nyenjeri stated that the ministry of irrigation will dispatch officials to train locals on farming techniques.
” We require extensive training in agriculture. We cannot have such a costly project without producing substantial results. We need proper agricultural education” Nyenjeri said.
Nyenjeri, who has expressed interest in running for the Kijabe MCA position, praised Kahangara for persistently pursuing government support to benefit local communities.