Kenya's Galana-Kulalu Project: A Giant Leap Towards Food Security

Kenya's Galana-Kulalu Food Security Project: A Boost to Food Production and Economic Growth Kilifi and Tana River counties in Kenya are witnessing a significant development with the completion of the Galana-Kulalu Food Security Project. President William Ruto officially announced the project's full operationalization, marking a milestone in Kenya's agricultural sector. The project, a collaboration between the Kenyan government and private entities, including Al Dahra of the UAE, represents a substantial investment aimed at enhancing food security and economic growth. The project's infrastructure is extensive, encompassing canals, a 450-million-liter reservoir, and a 20-million-liter offtake sump. This infrastructure is designed to optimize water use for farming, significantly increasing agricultural yields. The total investment in the project stands at Ksh 519 million. Land allocation under the project demonstrates a strategic approach to maximizing impact. Sello Limited has been allocated 50,000 acres, the Nuru Foundation another 50,000 acres, and Al Dahra of the UAE a substantial 100,000 acres. This public-private partnership ensures efficient resource management and expertise in large-scale farming. President Ruto stated, "This initiative will boost food production, create jobs, and support exports, while also producing animal feed to support livestock farming." His emphasis on job creation and economic diversification highlights the project's broader socio-economic benefits. Beyond irrigation, the project also includes a Ksh 1.5 billion Galana-Kulalu bridge and an ongoing Ksh 2.9 billion electrification project. These initiatives aim to lower production costs and improve overall efficiency. The project's success promises to transform Kenya's agricultural landscape and contribute to national food security and economic prosperity.