Kenya Set To Launch An Irrigation Plan To Boost Food Security, Economic Growth
The Mt Kenya Times 
Charles M. Muasya, CEO of the National Irrigation Authority at the NICIP pre launch event in Nairobi
By Cynthia Masibo
Ahead of today’s official launch of the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan (NISIP) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, stakeholders gathered yesterday for sensitization workshops and panel discussions to outline the strategic blueprint’s transformative goals.
NISIP, a 10-year roadmap, aims to mobilize government resources, development partners, and private investors to expand irrigated agriculture, enhance food and fodder production, and drive socioeconomic empowerment. The plan aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), prioritizing climate resilience and reducing reliance on food imports.
Yesterday’s pre-launch event featured presentations on irrigation investment opportunities and panel discussions with representatives from government agencies, private sector firms, and development partners. Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho noted that NISIP’s success hinges on multi-sectoral teamwork, ensuring stakeholders transition from “fence sitters” to active collaborators.
Charles M. Muasya, CEO of the National Irrigation Authority, underscored the plan’s role in fostering food security and job creation, particularly in ASAL regions where water scarcity fuels conflicts over resources.
Today’s official launch, themed “Accelerating Investment in Irrigation for Food Security and Socioeconomic Empowerment”, will formalize NISIP’s role in Kenya’s agricultural transformation.
The event will draw policymakers, investors, and international partners to discuss funding mechanisms and implementation strategies.
By reducing food imports by 50% through partial implementation and nearly zero with full execution, NISIP aims to lower living costs, boost foreign investment, and generate government revenue. The plan also seeks to resolve water-related conflicts in ASAL counties by stabilizing access to clean water and fodder.
“This is not just about irrigation—it’s about building a resilient economy and ensuring no Kenyan goes hungry,” the Irrigation PS noted during a workshop earlier this month.
With NISIP’s launch, Kenya takes a decisive step toward harnessing its agricultural potential, positioning irrigation as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
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