Yesterday, the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) team delivered a promising preliminary report on the Isiolo Dam to Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho.
The report unveiled the dam’s potential to revolutionize agriculture across more than 200,000 acres, into a thriving Feedlots and Disease Control Zone, offering hope for a brighter agricultural future in the region.
Unlocking Prosperity: The Crocodile Jaw Dam’s Impact on Isiolo County’s Water and Agriculture
Isiolo County has faced enduring challenges, particularly water scarcity and agricultural constraints. Earlier this year, a pivotal moment occurred when His Excellency Governor Abdi Ibrahim, alongside Irrigation PS Ephabtus Kimotho and CEO Irrigation, visited the long-awaited Crocodile Jaw Dam.
This initiative aims to address pressing issues and underscores the Governor’s commitment to overcoming obstacles that have previously stalled progress within the county.
The Crocodile Jaw Dam, once mired in delays, now symbolizes hope for transforming Isiolo County’s agricultural landscape. Governor Guyo’s commitment to overcoming project stagnation is evident.
The careful selection of the irrigation scheme’s location and a thorough understanding of the region’s potential for increased agricultural productivity demonstrate this.
A notable feature of the revived dam project is its innovative gravity-driven water supply. This approach minimizes the environmental impact of energy-intensive pumping systems.
While visiting the proposed Dam, PS Ephantaus Kimotho emphasized on the project’s renewed objective: leveraging water infusion for irrigation to significantly boost crop yields. He reiterated, that this project will address food security and lay the foundation for economic stability.
Contractors, meeting with the Governor earlier in the year, acknowledged historical concerns related to public participation and project delays.
They went on to assure the community that the revived project is intricately designed with residents’ best interests in mind. Public participation will be integral, ensuring the local community actively shapes their region’s future.
A Comprehensive Solution to Isiolo’s Water Scarcity
The planned construction of the Sh30.9 billion Crocodile Jaw Dam in Isiolo County aims to provide a permanent solution to the region’s water problems. Governor Guyo and Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho, during an inspection tour at the site of the proposed dam, emphasized its significance in boosting food security and improving climate resilience in the county.
The Crocodile Jaw Dam, projected to hold 315 million cubic meters of water when full, will increase the daily water supply for both domestic and industrial use by 58,473 cubic meters. Another 46,656 cubic meters will be used for irrigation, supporting continuous cropping and livestock value chains in the wake of climate change. The project, implemented by the National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority, ensures a consistent and reliable water flow through a gravity-driven system, minimizing the need for energy-intensive pumping.
A Vision for Sustainable Development
The Crocodile Jaw Dam, part of Kenya Kwanza’s plan to build 100 mega and 1,000 small dams, aligns with President William Ruto’s commitment to improving livelihoods by providing water for domestic and livestock use. With plans to allocate over 200,000 acres for feedlots and a disease control zone, the project promises to enhance food security and economic stability in Isiolo County.
Governor Guyo’s leadership, coupled with national and international support, drives Isiolo County toward a future of sustainable water access and agricultural prosperity. As Crocodile Jaw Dam project progresses, it stands as symbols of hope and transformation, poised to unlock a new era of growth and resilience for the region.