BY: Ian Kimutai

The Kenya Water Institute (KEWI), in partnership with CultivAid and the State Department of Irrigation, has successfully concluded a three-day Irrigation Management Course held at the Don Bosco Farm in Embu. Running from September 17th to 19th, 2025, the training attracted 46 participants and equipped them with practical skills in modern irrigation technology, a crucial step toward enhancing food security in Kenya.

The opening ceremony was graced by the Secretary of Irrigation, Joel Tanui. In his remarks, Mr. Tanui underscored the critical role of irrigation in driving Kenya’s economic growth, guided by the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan (NISIP). He also emphasized the State Department of Irrigation’s commitment to working closely with KEWI to expand training opportunities and strengthen capacity in the irrigation sector.

The course was designed to address the pressing challenges of water scarcity and climate change that threaten the nation’s agricultural sector. As a field-based training, participants gained hands-on expertise from Israeli facilitators, who shared their country’s renowned experience in arid farming. As part of the practical sessions, the group visited two model farms in Ichiara owned by local farmers. Key topics included the design, installation, and operation of modern irrigation systems and the use of climate-based scheduling to optimize water usage.

The training brought together professionals from a diverse range of institutions, including the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation (State Department of Irrigation), Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), National Irrigation Authority (NIA), the Kenya School of Agriculture, University of Embu, County Government of Siaya, County Government of Nakuru, Chuka University, and Kenya Agriculture Students Association.

The closing ceremony was graced by the CEO of KEWI, Dr. Leiro Letangule, who challenged the participants to act as agents of change. He urged them to apply their new knowledge to improve farming practices and livelihoods across their communities.

In a move to further strengthen Irrigation practical training, KEWI and CultivAid are planning to establish a model farm at the Chiakariga campus. This farm will serve as a living classroom, demonstrating the latest irrigation technologies and best practices for our students and the wider farming community.