The proposed Sigor Dam site in West Pokot and the Embobut Dam site in Elgeyo Marakwet
Most parts of West Pokot remain arid and semi-arid, making irrigation development essential for moving communities from low yields to reliable food production for both household consumption and commercial use.
During an inspection of the proposed Sigor Dam site in West Pokot and the Embobut Dam site in Elgeyo Marakwet, Irrigation Secretary for Land Reclamation and Climate Resilience, Mr. Joel Tanui, and Irrigation Secretary for Programs, Eng. Michael Thuita, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing major dam projects, including Sigor and Embobut. The Sigor Dam will draw its water from the Pas River, while the Embobut Dam will rely on the Embobut River.
The Sigor Irrigation Development Project is expected to revive West Pokot’s key agricultural value chains, particularly apple mangoes, green grams, vegetables, and other horticultural crops. The Secretaries, accompanied by Eng. Brian Kandie and West Pokot CEC for Water and Irrigation, Hon. William Petot, assured the community that no activity will commence without their full involvement through public participation and comprehensive feasibility studies.
IS Tanui explained that the proposed Infrastructure Fund introduced by the President will help finance major development projects, reduce pressure on the exchequer, and ensure long-term sustainability without burdening citizens.
Eng. Thuita added that the visit was primarily for site familiarization and preliminary engagement, with full stakeholder participation to follow.
The Embobut Dam is currently in the process of being listed under the Priority Dams Programme, paving the way for feasibility studies and the establishment of a joint technical committee.
The proposed multi-purpose Concrete Faced Rockfill Dam will have a storage capacity of 120 million m³ and support irrigation development, agro-processing, hydropower generation, bulk water supply, flood control, and environmental restoration.
Tarita Green Energy Ltd, the project proponent, will lead the feasibility studies, engineering design, and PPP financing.
The State Department remains committed to delivering a climate-resilient, sustainable, and community-centered project that strengthens food security, water access, and agricultural growth across the Kerio Valley and beyond.