Joshua Okundi, a 52-year-old farmer from Kanjira village in Homa Bay county, has transformed his livelihood through diversified agriculture, becoming a local role model. Once a retail shop owner, Okundi shifted to farming after realizing its financial potential, now generating a monthly net income of Sh170,000 from crops, dairy, and fish production.
The Kimira-Oluch irrigation project, initiated in 2009 with Sh5.6 billion in funding from the African Development Bank and national government, provided critical water access to 3,500 farmers. Initially underutilized, the system now supports Okundi's three-acre farm, where he grows maize, rice, vegetables, and bananas using tissue culture technology. His operations also include fishponds and dairy cows, with plans to expand into tilapia farming.
Okundi's success has spurred community interest, with villagers like Rose Apodo noting improved local access to horticultural crops. Homa Bay Mandate Committee Chairperson Ojala Nyang’i praised the project's impact, stating it demonstrates how agriculture can eradicate poverty when properly embraced. Project manager Nelson Korir confirmed 1,500 farmers currently use the system, with phase two in Rangwe expected to complete by June 30.
Despite progress, challenges remain. Okundi and others highlight the need for better market access, as farmers face losses when produce cannot be sold. Lake Basin Development Authority officer Evans Atera urged diversification into rice production, noting a Sh100 million government allocation to purchase local harvests. Okundi's story underscores the project's potential to transform Western Kenya's agricultural landscape when fully utilized.
