FAO project to boost food production in Taita Taveta

Farmers in Mata, Taita Taveta are set to boost production following the expansion of the Njoro Ndogo canal.

The two-kilometre project is being implemented by FAO at the cost of Sh8 million.

The expansion will benefit more than 5,000 fruit and vegetable farmers in the agricultural-rich Taveta subcounty.

Agriculture executive Erickson Kyongo said the department is banking on the project to promote food security.

"The future of agriculture is in irrigation. This extension project will greatly improve the output, subsequently ensuring food sustainability and economic empowerment," he said.

The region is among the highest agricultural areas.

Farmers in Taveta depend on water from different canals to grow maize, vegetables and fruits, making the subcounty the leading food basket for Coast.

Kyongo said the devolved unit is working closely with other partners to promote food production to reduce the levels of hunger.

“We want to utilise all avenues to increase food production. More interventions are being put in place to curb food insecurity,” he said.

The CEC urged the community to be vigilant to ensure the project benefits farmers.

Abedih Mbatha, FAO county programme officer, said the expanded canal will ensure water  reaches all farmers.

He said FAO is also implementing the extension of the Msau/Rahai Canal to help farmers put more land under irrigation.

"Besides the canal projects, we are also constructing a check dam in Rong’e Ward and a water tank in Bura Ward. All projects are meant to boost food production," Mbatha said.

Jonathan Mulinge, a farmer in Mata said the irrigation projects will bolster food production in dry areas.

He urged other farmers to work jointly with the contractor to ensure the construction is undertaken within the set timelines.