This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
On Monday, Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa visited Bumadeya Primary School in Bunyala Sub County, where he emphasized the importance of collaboration between the National Government and local leaders in completing the Lower Nzoia Irrigation Project.
Speaking to the press, Wamalwa stated that the project, valued at Sh 5 billion, will offer a lasting solution to floods in the area. He noted that since the establishment of temporary dykes along River Nzioa 10 years ago, the region has not experienced floods of this magnitude.
Wamalwa urged land owners in areas earmarked for the project to accept compensation, citing it as the main cause of delay. He reiterated that the project will enable the establishment of permanent dykes, which will increase the acreage of land under the Bunyala Irrigation Scheme from 2,000 to 10,000 acres.
At the same time, Wamalwa urged those living in flood-prone areas to take precautions against loss of lives and property. He advised them to heed government advice and move to safer grounds, adding that the government would not like to incur further loss of lives.
Wamalwa pointed out that 164 lives have been lost due to floods and landslides across the country since the onset of heavy rains. He assured of government support in terms of food and non-food items for the affected communities.
According to Wamalwa, more than 10,000 households have been affected by floods across 23 counties, particularly in Nyanza, Rift Valley, North Eastern, Western, and North Eastern regions.
