By Dorothy Musyoka
Kenya has taken a significant step toward enhancing food security through a new partnership with Abu Dhabi-based agribusiness giant Al Dahra.
The agreement, signed under the framework of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), will see the expansion of the Galana-Kulalu Irrigation Project, a key pillar of Kenya’s agricultural strategy.
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a strategic move to increase agricultural production and productivity, ensuring that the country can sustainably feed its growing population.
The partnership will introduce advanced irrigation technologies and sustainable farming practices to maximize yields from Kenya’s vast arable land.
“We are building on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Kenya and the United Arab Emirates to initiate development, including irrigation projects, that impacts the lives of Kenyans,” noted President Ruto.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, President William Ruto emphasized the importance of irrigation in achieving Kenya’s food security goals.
“Irrigation is a key pillar of our food security value chain. Our plan is to ensure increased agricultural production and productivity to feed the nation,” President Ruto said.
The Galana-Kulalu project, located in the coastal region, is poised to become a model for large-scale commercial farming, integrating modern irrigation solutions to mitigate the risks posed by climate change and erratic weather patterns.
The collaboration is expected to create employment opportunities, support local farmers, and improve access to affordable food supplies.
This partnership builds on the Kenya-UAE CEPA, a trade and investment framework designed to unlock economic opportunities across multiple sectors, including agriculture.
The deal reflects Kenya’s commitment to fostering international collaborations that drive sustainable development and economic growth.
As the country continues to prioritize agricultural transformation, the expansion of the Galana-Kulalu Irrigation Project is a bold step toward achieving food security, boosting exports, and strengthening Kenya’s position as a key player in Africa’s agribusiness sector.
The government remains committed to ensuring that this initiative delivers tangible benefits for Kenyan farmers and consumers alike, reinforcing the country’s vision of a food-secure nation.