Attan Irrigation Project Expands, Bringing Hope and Opportunity to Isiolo County, Kenya
PlantVillage is excited to announce a significant expansion of the Attan Irrigation Community Center for Innovations (CCI) project in Isiolo County, Kenya.
The project, recently commissioned by USAID-Kenya and East Africa Mission Director David Gosney, represents a major step forward in the fight against food insecurity in the region.
The project began with establishing a half-acre CCI plot showcasing innovative and cost-effective irrigation techniques like wick capillary, moist bed, and drip irrigation systems. This initial phase not only demonstrated these methods but also empowered 11 young people through training and equipment, enabling them to establish thriving kitchen gardens. The recent commissioning ceremony marks a major expansion, scaling up the farm size to a productive 2.5 acres.
Residents of Isiolo County during the commissioning of the Attan Irrigation Community Center for Innovations (CCI) project
Empowering the Community for a Sustainable Future
Empowering the local community, particularly young people, is a core principle of the Attan project. The expansion provides opportunities for additional community members to gain valuable skills and knowledge in sustainable agriculture. This not only improves food security but also opens doors to increased income generation through the production of high-value crops.
Tackling Challenges in Arid Lands
Isiolo County, an Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL) region, faces unique challenges in food production. The Attan project tackles these challenges head-on by promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Water-saving irrigation systems and research focused on optimizing farming systems for the region's specific climate to ensure long-term success.
(Centre) PlantVillage East and Southern Africa Director Dr. John Chelal, Lead-Partners and Relations at PlantVillage Daniel Njapit and USAID-Kenya and East Africa Mission Director David Gosney during the commissioning of the Attan Irrigation Community Center for Innovations (CCI) project
Collaboration is Key to Success
The success of the Attan project is a testament to the power of collaboration. PlantVillage, the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), USAID's Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Current and Emerging Threats to Crops (CETC IL), and NAWIRI (another USAID-funded program) joined forces with the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), Co-Operation Peace And Development (COPAD), the European Union (EU), KENYA RANGER, and Nakuprat-Gotu.
This combined effort ensures a holistic approach to food security, addressing not just agricultural production but also access to clean water and improved nutrition.
The Attan Irrigation project represents a beacon of hope for Isiolo County. By promoting sustainable agriculture, empowering the community, and fostering collaboration, this project paves the way for a future of improved food security, better nutrition, and increased opportunities for all.