NATIONAL IRRIGATION AUTHORITY PARTICIPATES IN THE EXPO 2020 DUBAI
The National Irrigation Authority delegation led by Director Fatma El-Maawy took part in the Expo 2020 Dubai with the primary objective of seeking partnership and collaborations in irrigation development and management in Kenya.
During the expo, the delegation took part in the High Business Forum graced by H.E Uhuru Kenyatta where business-to-business (B2B) sessions were arranged. The delegation also visited pavilions for 13 countries to engage further on opportunities for partnership and collaborations with the Authority.
Kenya has a population of about 47.5 million. Arid and semi-arid lands are around 80-89% with about 10.2% (14.3 million) arable land. The agriculture sector contributes to 33% of the GDP and 40% of employment. Kenya has an irrigation potential of 1.913 million acres while the area under irrigation is 650,000 acres (31%).
Over-reliance on rainfall, poor spatial and temporal distribution of rainfall, and food insecurity have challenged irrigation in Kenya. However, large tracks of land, availability of labour, vibrant agriculture sector, good communication, and transport infrastructure offers opportunities to tackle these challenges.
The Authority will continue to seek these opportunities with a view of achieving water to every irrigable acre for food security and social-economic growth.