SIAYA, Kenya, July 22, 2026 – Farmers in Obaga Village, Rarieda Constituency, are facing an uncertain future after a major irrigation system breakdown left farms without water for more than two weeks, threatening vegetable production, greenhouse farming, and livelihoods that depend on the project.


The irrigation scheme, which serves hundreds of residents in the area, has reportedly been out of operation following the failure of key infrastructure, including water pumps, distribution pipes, and related equipment. The disruption has affected farmers who rely on the system to irrigate vegetables, fruits, and greenhouse crops, especially during the current dry spell.


Residents say the project has been a lifeline for many households in Obaga, enabling year-round farming and supporting local food production. However, with the water supply interrupted, many crops are beginning to show signs of stress, raising fears of reduced harvests and significant financial losses.


  • "We depend on this project for our daily income. Our vegetables require a constant supply of water, and many farmers are now worried that their crops may dry up before the system is repaired," said one farmer.


Apart from farmers, the crisis has also affected local water vendors who depend on the irrigation infrastructure to supply water to households and businesses. Many report that their earnings have dropped sharply since the breakdown occurred.


Agriculture remains one of the key economic activities in Rarieda Constituency, with irrigation projects playing a critical role in cushioning farmers against unreliable rainfall and climate change. Nationally, the government has continued to emphasize irrigation as a key strategy for boosting food security and protecting farmers from the effects of drought. Recent plans by the State Department for Irrigation and the National Irrigation Authority have focused on expanding irrigation infrastructure across the country to support agricultural productivity and climate resilience.


Residents are now appealing to county and national authorities to intervene urgently and restore the damaged infrastructure before losses escalate further. They argue that prolonged delays could undermine years of progress made through irrigation-based farming in the area.


Local leaders have also called for an assessment of the damage and a long-term maintenance plan to prevent future disruptions. They note that irrigation schemes are critical not only for food production but also for employment creation and poverty reduction in rural communities.


As the breakdown enters its third week, farmers say they are running out of options and fear that unless repairs are carried out immediately, the economic impact on households and the local food supply chain could be severe.


For now, the people of Obaga are waiting for action, hoping that the pumps will roar back to life before their crops and incomes are lost.


Hamasta Media – Reporting Moments That Matter.