Finally, after at least ten years of waiting, the long-awaited “Galana Kulalu” agricultural project in the Malindi hinterland, in the Galana River valley, seems to have reached completion.
This means that the entire area, approximately 250,000 acres, will become a food reservoir that should provide food security for a population of at least 300,000 people.
It was Kenyan President William Ruto, after an on-site inspection, who announced the completion of the collection infrastructure, the pumping station, the canals, and the 450-million-liter reservoir with a 20-million-liter collection well, which is currently undergoing final testing.
“Enough talk, now it's time for action,” said Ruto, explaining that the entire area will benefit from improved irrigation and agricultural productivity.
The project has been halted several times over the years, with Israel involved in the project, which was supposed to be the second largest agricultural area in Kenya.
The Israelis had reported problems related to corruption, and local media reports had told of opposition from large companies that would have been less competitive, especially in the sale of corn on the coast.
Now, however, after a period of stoppages and slow self-financed work, Ruto explained that his government is collaborating with the private sector under a public-private partnership model, a memorandum of understanding has been signed with the United Arab Emirates to attract investment in food and animal feed production, and that a private company will start farming next week, with two more to follow.
In addition, the president has announced new plans to build a dam on the Galana River to ensure a steady water supply.
To facilitate the transport of products, trade, and connections, the bridge over the Galana River, a €100 million infrastructure project 200 meters long, is almost ready, and an electrification project worth around €250 million is also underway, which will reduce production costs and support the processing of agricultural products. The installation of the electrical system is expected to be completed by 2026.