Gov’t launches Ksh.55M Hirimani Bridges, issues Green Cards to 720 farmers

The government has launched the construction of the Ksh.55 million Hirimani Bridges in Bura Irrigation Scheme, Tana River County, and issued Green Cards covering more than 2,000 acres of land to 720 farming families in a move aimed at improving irrigation infrastructure and securing land ownership for farmers.

Kimotho noted that the government remains committed to enhancing agricultural productivity and improving livelihoods within the Bura Irrigation Scheme.

The PS announced that Ksh.55 million has been allocated for the construction of the Hirimani Bridges linking Villages 2 and 6. Although the project is scheduled for completion within one year, the contractor is targeting to finish the works within six months.

Kimotho also directed the continued desilting of irrigation canals and clearing of bushes to improve water flow and operational efficiency across the scheme. In addition, at least 10 kilometres of access roads will be upgraded to ease the movement of farmers, farm inputs and produce.

He further underscored the importance of physical planning and land mapping in supporting orderly development and sustainable agricultural production, saying the Green Cards will give farmers greater security over their land and encourage investment in farming activities.

The launch came ahead of a consultative meeting bringing together officials from the State Department for Irrigation, the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, the National Irrigation Authority, National Government Administration Officers and local leaders to discuss the commercialisation of the Bura Irrigation Scheme.

The discussions focused on land administration and planning, irrigation infrastructure development, stakeholder concerns, institutional coordination and strategies aimed at increasing agricultural productivity within the scheme.

MP Kuno on his part lauded the State Department for Irrigation for addressing farmers' concerns and fast-tracking key infrastructure projects in the area.

Once completed, the Hirimani Bridges are expected to improve access and safety within the scheme, reduce travel time, enhance surveillance of the main canal during the rainy season and minimise flooding and crop damage in farms located near the Hirimani Laga.

According to project details, the Village 2 Bridge will consist of a double-span 20-metre reinforced concrete girder bridge and associated approach roads. The Village 6 Bridge will feature a similar structure alongside two single-cell box culverts and connecting access roads.

Officials say the project will strengthen irrigation operations, improve accessibility and support increased agricultural productivity in the Bura Irrigation Scheme.