The Machakos County Government has announced plans to channel more investment into the construction of weirs as part of a wider effort to combat persistent water shortages and strengthen food security across the county. Governor Wavinya Ndeti said the strategy aims to improve surface water harvesting and retention, particularly in semi-arid areas where communities have long struggled with limited rainfall and unreliable water sources. The initiative is expected to support irrigation, livestock farming, and domestic use, offering relief to households that currently face recurring drought pressure.
Governor Ndeti made the announcement while hosting a delegation from Habitat for Humanity Kenya for discussions on potential collaborations in water access and affordable housing initiatives. She noted that the county is seeking to work hand-in-hand with the national government and development partners to accelerate water infrastructure projects. According to the governor, the construction of weirs—small-scale barriers built across rivers to trap and store flowing water—has already proven effective in several localities, improving soil moisture, increasing crop yields, and reducing reliance on unpredictable rainfall. Expanding this approach, she added, will help empower farmers to engage in continuous food production, especially in regions that have historically depended on relief supplies during dry seasons.
The county’s renewed focus on water harvesting comes at a time when climate change and shifting weather patterns continue to threaten agricultural stability in Eastern Kenya. By prioritizing sustainable farming and water conservation, Machakos aims to strengthen resilience among smallholder farmers and enhance rural livelihoods. Habitat for Humanity Kenya officials expressed readiness to explore long-term partnerships that support both water security and improved living standards. The planned collaboration is expected to include technical support, community mobilization, and resource pooling to maximize impact.
The county government will now move into feasibility reviews and community-level consultations before rolling out additional construction phases. If implemented effectively, the expanded weir infrastructure could mark a turning point in enhancing food production, reducing drought vulnerability, and promoting self-sufficiency among households in Machakos County.