Background Information
The Ahero Irrigation Scheme is located in the Kano plains between Nandi Escarpment and Nyabondo Plateau. The Scheme was started as a pilot project to explore the feasibility of irrigation in the Kano Plains. Construction of the Scheme started in 1966 and operations started in 1969.
Statistical Data
| Location/County | Kisumu County, Muhoroni Sub-county |
| Year of Establishment | 1966 |
| Gazetted Area | 4,176 acres |
| Area developed for irrigation | 10,810 acres |
| Main Crop | Rice: Rice varieties are 74% Sindano (IR-2793 & ITA 310), 20% Komboka, 5% aromatic (Basmat-370) and 1% hybrid (Arize Tej Gold & Arize 6444 Gold). |
| Other Crops | Soybeans (seed) – contracted by SeedCo ltd-Kitale, soybeans (commercial) – contracted by Josiche Co. Ltd- Nakuru, watermelon, maize, tomatoes, sorghum and cowpeas |
| Source of Irrigation Water | River Nyando |
| No. of Beneficiaries | Approximately 30,000 beneficiaries at the scheme area and approximately 80,000 beneficiaries at the expansion area |
| Type of Irrigation | Basin Irrigation |
Current Status
The main crop grown in Ahero Irrigation Scheme is rice. The rice varieties grown are 74% Sindano (IR-2793 & ITA 310), 20% Komboka, 5% aromatic (Basmat-370) and 1% hybrid (Arize Tej Gold & Arize 6444 Gold).The Scheme produces approximately 58,374 Metric Tonnes (MT) of rice annually.
Currently, 10,810 acres are under irrigation. There are approximately 30,000 beneficiaries at the scheme area and approximately 80,000 beneficiaries at the expansion area.
Projected Benefits/ Benefits being realized
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Enhanced food security
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Employment creation
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Wealth creation thereby improving living standards (e.g. Health, Education, Shelter, and general economic growth of the population)
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Supply of fresh produce to town centres.
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Source of food and raw materials for the farming population and supporting of the local economy and industry.
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Supporting trade within and outside the county.