Kano state to irrigate 2,000 acres for farming
11 new mini dams will expand year-round cultivation, boosting farmer productivity and rural incomes.
The Kano State Government plans to develop 11 mini dams to bring an additional 2,000 acres of farmland under irrigation for year-round production. Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Danjuma Mahmoud, stated this aims to increase cultivable land and improve farmer productivity. The government has already restored over 1,200 acres by rehabilitating irrigation facilities at Jermambaka, Kadawa, and Bunkure A and B.
A further 200 acres were recovered through a partnership with the Federal Government and the ATAPS project. The state is also developing an irrigation facility at Donsushiya, comprising a two-kilometre dam with a three billion cubic litre capacity, designed to serve 500 hectares. This project is 40 per cent complete, with its 14-kilometre access road finished.
The proposed mini dams will be located in Bebeji, Kibiya, Sumaila, Doguwa, Shanono, Dawakin Kudu, Gaya, Rogo, Dala, Dawakin Tofa, and Ungogo local government areas. Compensation has been paid in at least six locations, and contractors are mobilised to some sites, including Bebeji. The expanded irrigation network is expected to generate employment and discourage rural migration.
Why it mattersFarmers in Kano will benefit from increased cultivable land and improved productivity through new irrigation projects.