Sustainable Land Management In Kiambindu, Kiarukungu, Kyeekolo And Kisioki Smallholder Irrigation Schemes

Abstract

Kiambindu, Kiarukungu, Kyeekolo and Kisioki irrigat ion schemes are community based initiatives started at different dates between 1970’s and 2003 focusing on economic empowerment of their members through the utilization of the natural reso urces. The schemes are located in Mbeere, Kirinyaga, Makueni and Kajiado Districts, respectiv ely. It is in this light that the Ministry of Water and Irrigation, Irrigation and Drainage Department and Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) approached Kenya Soil Survey (KSS) with a request t o conduct soil investigations in the four project areas. The purpose of the soil investigations was t o provide information that would ensure the development of sustainable community based soils an d water management practices which would ultimately support the realization of food self suf ficiency/security, wealth creation and a healthy environment. Table 1 gives the summary of land use and other land characteristics in the irrigation schemes. The following are the findings of the soil investigations: ....