By Michelle Ndaga
Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kim on Thursday held a debrief session at the Bura Irrigation Scheme offices with officials from the National Irrigation Authority, security teams, farmers, and Water Users Associations. The Bura Irrigation Scheme is one of Kenya’s largest projects, serving thousands of households but facing high maintenance costs and declining efficiency.
The meeting preceded planned consultations with farmers and local leaders on the introduction of Operation and Maintenance (O&M) fees, following a Presidential directive to enhance the sustainability of the scheme.
Currently, farmers are required to pay KSh 7,500 per 1.5 acres for rice and KSh 5,000 per 1.5 acres for other crops to support irrigation infrastructure. Officials say the fees are meant to reduce dependence on government funding and keep the scheme operational.
