The National Irrigation Authority (NIA) has disbursed Ksh15.2 million to 177 rice farmers in Migori County as part of the second phase of land compensation tied to the Lower Kuja Irrigation Project. This payment follows an earlier Ksh17 million settlement issued to 77 farmers in the first phase, bringing the total compensation to Ksh32 million. The funds are part of a government allocation of Ksh68 million earmarked for resolving land ownership issues that have delayed the full rollout of the project in Nyatike Constituency. The initiative seeks to unlock stalled works and expand rice farming capacity across the region.
“We have a vibrant workforce supporting farmers and the county government to improve productivity and revive rice farming in Nyatike,” said Charles Muasya, Chief Executive Officer of NIA. He confirmed the authority is targeting an annual budget of Ksh700 million over the next three years to complete all remaining infrastructure. The Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme has already demonstrated high productivity. Rice output has reached 3.6 tonnes per acre well above the national average of 2.8 tonnes per acre positioning the area as a major rice production zone.
NIA Board Chair Gilbert Maluki emphasized that the compensation program reflects the state’s commitment to settling long-standing land grievances that have hindered the scheme’s expansion. The project, once fully operational, is expected to cover 7,200 hectares and benefit more than 19,000 farmers. It aims to increase food production, improve household income, and strengthen regional food security, especially in periods of prolonged drought.
Muasya noted the urgency of completing the project to ensure farmers have consistent access to irrigation, which is critical for sustaining agriculture in the face of climate change and water scarcity.
NIA said the compensation process remains transparent and will continue until all verified claims are honored. The agency affirmed that it remains on course to deliver the project on schedule and in line with national goals for agricultural development.
The Lower Kuja scheme is a flagship initiative under Kenya’s broader strategy to expand irrigated agriculture and stabilize rural economies.
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