Miruka water pan in Bondo Sub-County, Siaya County is now open for use by people living in dry locations in the area.
The water pan was rehabilitated by Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project (KCSAP) of Siaya County, at a cost of Sh8.9 million.
The County KCSAP Coordinator, Mr Willis Atiang’ said the water pan was intended for irrigation to grow different types of food, for home consumption and sale.
The areas around the water pan are on the rain shadow side of Lake Victoria, hence the drought causing acute food shortage. These areas are West Sakwa, Central Sakwa East Uyoma locations
The water pan had dried up 15 years ago, for lack of funds to maintain it, hence KCSAP’s intervention.
The Coordinator said the area was suitable for growing sorghum, millet, cassava, sweet potatoes and vegetables, therefore the area residents should utilize the pan water to grow them.
By Paul Olale