Kano, FG expand irrigation projects to boost year-round farming

The Kano State Government and the Federal Government are working to expand irrigation infrastructure to enable farmers increase food production through year-round farming.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf disclosed this during an inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of the Kafinchiri Dam, a Federal Government project being implemented in collaboration with the state.

Yusuf said the completion of the project would open up more opportunities for farmers to cultivate crops during the dry season, while improving incomes and economic activities in benefiting communities.

He urged the contractor to accelerate work on the dam and ensure that the project is delivered according to the required standards and within schedule.

The Kafinchiri Dam was constructed in 1976 primarily for irrigation but has not been fully utilised over the years, according to Senator Kawu Sumaila, who represents Kano South Senatorial District.

Sumaila said the facility is among three dams selected for rehabilitation and irrigation development with funding from the Ecological Project Office.

He said restoring the dam would expand access to irrigation for farmers in the surrounding communities and help increase agricultural production.

The rehabilitation is expected to strengthen Kano’s dry-season farming capacity as the state seeks to improve food security and reduce farmers’ reliance on rainfall.