By Staff Writer | Wajir Today | Friday, 7 November 2025
Senior government officials on Thursday inspected the Griftu Water Pan for Feedlot Project in Wajir West Constituency, a flagship initiative aimed at transforming livelihoods and boosting agricultural productivity in the arid region.
The delegation was led by the Principal Secretary for Irrigation, Ephantus Kimotho, and his counterpart from the State Department for ASALs, PS Kello Harsama. They were received by Wajir Governor and Council of Governors Chairperson, Ahmed Abdullahi.
The Griftu Water Pan project is designed to enhance water security, promote livestock production, and create new economic opportunities for communities living in arid and semi-arid lands.
According to officials, the project will directly benefit 250 households and indirectly support another 700. It aims to improve red meat production, strengthen food security, and build resilience against drought.
PS Kimotho said the project aligns with President William Ruto’s directive to accelerate dam and irrigation works across Kenya, especially in drought-prone regions.
“The Griftu project demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to transforming ASAL regions into hubs of sustainable agricultural and livestock production, thereby reducing food imports, expanding exports, and empowering pastoral communities” he said
PS Harsama underscored the importance of collaboration between government departments, saying a whole-of-government approach is essential for success.
“The Government plans to establish 450 feedlots across ASALs counties to strengthen livestock value chains and promote drought resilience.” The PS said
Spanning 5,000 acres, the project includes water pans with a combined storage capacity of 750,000 cubic metres.
“To safeguard this critical investment, the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development will fence the entire 5,000-acre project area.” PS Harsama added
Governor Abdullahi praised the progress made so far, noting that the project was timely as the region prepares for the rainy season.
“This landmark initiative is part of a multi-departmental program designed to support our pastoralists during drought periods through a large-scale livestock management system”
The inspection team included senior officials from both levels of government, among them Irrigation Secretary Joel Tanui, Secretary for Administration Yatich Kipkemei, Director for Irrigation Water Management Daniel Odero, and Director for Climate Resilience Thandi Githae.
Also present were Wajir County Commissioner Karuku Ngumo and Ms. Wanjiku Manyatta, Director for Regional Development.
The Griftu Water Pan for Feedlot Project is expected to transform the region’s economic landscape by promoting livestock rearing, agribusiness, and climate-smart farming.
Officials say the project will not only provide a reliable water supply but also strengthen community resilience and support long-term development in Wajir County.
