Selu Limited is gearing up for a transition into commercial farming at the Galana-Kulalu Irrigation Scheme, encompassing a vast million acres.
Following a successful model farm, where the company achieved a remarkable yield of 35 bags per acre, Selu is poised to capitalise on its findings.
Having taken over operations from agro-tech firm Twiga last year, Selu conducted a pilot project on 500 acres within the expansive irrigation scheme to assess the feasibility of this substantial investment.
Encouraged by the outcomes, the company has announced plans to inject an additional Ksh13 billion into the venture, marking its foray into commercial farming this quarter.
The achieved harvest of 35 bags per acre is a threefold increase compared to the national average of 10 bags, instilling optimism for the success of this enterprise within one of the Jubilee government’s flagship projects.
Established as a special-purpose vehicle, Selu Limited is steadfast in its commitment to investing in and transforming the Galana-Kulalu irrigation project. The company aims to implement innovative and sustainable farming practices to ensure long-term success.
Originally scheduled to commence commercial farming in the last quarter of 2023 with at least 20 acres under crop cover, Selu’s move is in line with the broader goals of the Ruto government in advancing agricultural development and food security.
This development comes at a time when five additional investors are set to join the mega scheme. These investors, comprising both local and international entities, are set to collaborate with Selu which has actively engaged at the site since last year.
Agriculture Principal Secretary, Dr Paul Rono, anticipates that this collaborative effort will significantly contribute to the nation’s food security objectives, aligning with Kenya’s overarching goal of reducing reliance on imports by strengthening domestic agricultural production.
The Galana-Kulalu project’s development is facilitated through a Public-Private Partnership with the government, stressing the joint commitment to achieving food security and self-sufficiency in the country.
gandae@businessdayafrica.org