Ruto flags off Galana Kulalu project to boost food security

The long-awaited Galana Kulalu Food Security Project is now ready for full implementation, President William Ruto has announced.

This follows the completion of the intake, pump station, canals and reservoir infrastructure under the Sh519.4 million plan.

The newly built system includes a 753-metre inlet canal, a 450 million-litre reservoir, a 1,210-metre outlet canal, and a 20 million-litre off-take sump, now undergoing final testing.

Speaking during an inspection tour on Friday, President Ruto said the project will help end hunger by boosting irrigation and agricultural productivity. “There has been enough talk; now the work begins,” he stated.

The government is partnering with the private sector under a Public-Private Partnership model to operationalise the project and scale up food production. A private company will begin farming next week.

Ruto revealed that Kenya and the United Arab Emirates have signed an MoU to attract investment into food and animal feed production.

Of the 250,000 acres set for irrigation, 20,000 are allocated to Selu Ltd, 50,000 to Nyumbani Foundation and 180,000 to UAE-based Al Dahra.

He also announced plans to construct a dam on River Galana to ensure a steady water supply.

To ease transportation of farm produce, the President inspected the Sh1.5 billion Galana-Kulalu Bridge and access roads, including a 200-metre bridge.

Additionally, the Sh2.9 billion electrification project, led by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation, will cut production costs and support agro-processing. Power installation is expected to be complete by 2026.

Ruto reiterated his focus on delivering promises to Kenyans, urging leaders to avoid divisive politics and focus on development.

“We will serve all Kenyans equally, regardless of their political choices,” he said.