The Kerio Valley Development Authority(KVDA) has been recognized as the outstanding maize seed grower (H517) at Weiwei Irrigation Scheme in the financial year 2021-2022. The Wei Wei Integrated Development Project (WWIDP) is located in Sigor constituency, West Pokot County. The project was conceived in 1987 in a joint collaboration between the Government of Kenya and Italian Government. The overall project objective is to develop irrigation infrastructure for food production, improve house hold income and reduce insecurity created by cattle rustling through creation of employment opportunities.
The project was developed in three phases with the completion of the first phase totaling 70 ha in 1990, 50 ha for demonstration and research purposes. Phase II was completed in 1992 and benefited 205 households and the ongoing Phase III is expected to develop an additional 325 ha under irrigation to benefit 325 households upon completion.
KVDA was awarded the certificate for being the leading producer of (H517) maize seed variety which is ideal for 800-1700 altitude, it takes 120-150 days to mature, tolerant to foliar diseases and pests, ideal for irrigation, has better husk cover and is tolerant to cob rot and maize streak virus(MSV). KVDA is able to supply maize seed to Kenya Seed Company and other seed companies from the irrigation scheme at Weiwei and additional maize seeds from the Local farmers. This has led to improved livelihoods through job creation at the irrigation scheme, ensuring food security and production of high quality seeds which are sold to the public for greater production.
