Irrigation key to closing gender gap in water security, PS Kimotho says
National
By
Mike Kihaki
| Mar 23, 2026
Women and girls continue to bear the heaviest burden of water insecurity in Kenya despite contributing up to 70 per cent of all agricultural labour.
Speaking during national celebrations to mark World Water Day 2026 in Meru County, Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho observed that irrigation expansion remains the most direct tool for closing the gender productivity gap.
The PS cited ongoing irrigation investments in Meru County worth approximately Sh750 million as evidence of the government's commitment to equity. The projects cover 2,581 acres and benefit more than 5,381 households.
"Expanding access to irrigation is therefore key to unlocking productivity, reducing poverty and promoting equity," noted Kimotho.
The PS called on stakeholders to conserve water towers, protect forest catchments and promote inclusive irrigation access for women and youth to ensure sustainable food security.
READ MORE
Unlock credit access to unleash African markets
GCR affirms Kenya Re B, AA financial rating
State think tank: Raising VAT risks driving firms to informal sector
Northern Corridor blueprint secures green funding
Manufacturers turn to direct sales as online shopping reshapes electronics trade
Historic El Nino threat raises fresh risks for Kenya's economy and food security
Surge in Tanzania, Uganda units push EABL net profit to record Sh18.2 billion
Stanbic Bank records marginal jump in half-year profit to Sh6.6b
KNCCI, Co-operative Bank to expand financial access for small businesses
Canada-based diaspora Sacco unveil Sharia-compliant loan products
Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa led the event, held under the theme Water and Gender, at Mwerongundu Primary School in Igembe North Constituency.
The ceremony was attended by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura and several principal secretaries, including Julius Korir (Water), Betsy Njagi (Blue Economy), Gitonga Mugambi (Forestry) and Patrick Kilemi (Cooperatives).
During the commemoration of the International Day of Forests at Oloolua Forest on Saturday, March 21, PS Kimotho said that communities surrounding forests will be at the center of conservation efforts.
The PS who has adopted the forest said that he would be leading restoration on the river through various initiatives to bring together the community, well-wishers and government agencies.
"We cannot do without the support of the surrounding communities, we are going to support the establishment of tree nurseries and a borehole to aid the tree nurseries, provide 200 beehives, 2000 ovacado seedlings,” he said.
Kimotho emphasized on the critical need to protect the forest to safeguard the biodiversity but and provide livelihoods to communities neighbouring the forests.
The PS said that he had embarked on the process of mobilizing resources to electronically fence the forest through various initiatives like a walk set to take place on April 25, 2026.
Already there are commitments from friends and partners to put up the electronic fence on 23 of the first 25 acres around the Forest
According to Kimotho neighbouring communities will play critical roles in the restoration efforts and that a public participation exercise will be held to determine where the gates to the forest will be located.