Twiga Foods is set to expand the irrigated area at the Galana Kulalu Food Security Project (GKFSP) by a substantial 20,000 acres, with the aim of achieving an annual maize production of 2 million bags.
The expansion will occur in two phases: an initial 10,000-acre development, followed by a similar-sized expansion after the construction of the Galana Dam. This move is driven by the impressive productivity of the area, enabled by efficient irrigation infrastructure.
Peter Njonjo, Co-founder and Group CEO of Twiga Foods, highlighted the advantage of the area’s 105-day maize crop cycle, which allows for three crops per year, including a rotational crop. This, coupled with high maize yield, is expected to yield up to 2 million bags annually.
The construction of the Galana Dam aligns with a presidential directive, and a proposal for an additional 350,000-acre expansion is under review.
Twiga Foods, in collaboration with the National Irrigation Authority, has already initiated a maize crop trial on 538 acres, employing different treatments to optimize crop growth. The company is also conducting comprehensive studies on soil conditions, irrigation systems, and crop water needs to lay the groundwork for the forthcoming expansion.
The expansion plans were unveiled during a project tour, where Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome revealed plans to diversify the project’s scope, including an agripark, ranching, and electricity generation.
This initiative aims to bolster national food security, promote job opportunities, and drive socio-economic advancement in Kenya.
Covering over 1.75 million acres, the GKFSP spans both the Galana and Kulalu ranches. It seeks to enhance productivity through strategic investments in crop and livestock production, as well as sustainable resource management. Currently in its second implementation phase, the project is nearly complete, with an anticipated full completion by December 31, 2023.
