Farmers at the Perkerra Irrigation Scheme in Baringo County have raised alarm over rising cases of equipment theft that are threatening agricultural activities and food production in the region.
The thefts, which target metal valves and critical water intake apparatus used to control irrigation flow, have resulted in uneven water distribution, leaving some farms flooded while others dry up. The ongoing sabotage has sparked tension among farmers and is now being described as a looming agricultural crisis.
“This is a disaster,” said Daniel Waweru, Manager of the Perkerra Irrigation Board. “Without these valves, we cannot control water, and the impact on food security is already being felt.”
The Perkerra scheme, one of Kenya’s oldest public irrigation projects established in 1954, has become a target for night-time gangs who dismantle infrastructure and sell the stolen parts to scrap metal dealers in Marigat.
Baringo South MP Charles Kamuren has condemned the attacks and called for the reinstatement of the national ban on scrap metal trading. “We cannot allow the projects to be destroyed by criminals. The government must act decisively,” he said.
Farmers are urging authorities to intervene urgently to protect the scheme and ensure its continued operation, warning that the ongoing theft could lead to the collapse of livelihoods and further instability in food supply.
The government is yet to issue an official response, but pressure is mounting for swift and effective measures to safeguard one of the region’s most critical agricultural lifelines.
Written By Rodney Mbua
