By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, July 11, 2026 - Tana River County has taken a major step towards establishing large-scale lucerne farming after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority (NWHSA) to support the investment through water infrastructure.
Governor Maj. (Rtd.) Dhadho Godhana signed the agreement with the Authority at its Nairobi headquarters on Friday, describing the partnership as a milestone that will help unlock the county's agricultural and livestock potential.
A separate MoU was also signed between the NWHSA and Stella Mundi, the private investor spearheading the lucerne project. Under the agreement, the Authority will provide reliable water infrastructure to sustain commercial cultivation of the high-value fodder crop.
Governor Godhana said the project fulfils a long-held ambition to establish lucerne farming in Tana River, noting that the idea had remained unrealised for nearly five decades.
"This is a dream come true. The vision of growing lucerne in Tana River has existed for almost 50 years, and today we are beginning to make it a reality," he said in a statement on Saturday.
He said the investment is expected to create employment opportunities, strengthen the livestock value chain and enhance the county's agricultural productivity by ensuring a steady supply of quality animal feed.
NWHSA Board Chairperson Dr. Jane Makau said the Authority was pleased to support an initiative that integrates water security with agricultural development.
She noted that reliable water infrastructure is essential for the success of large-scale farming projects, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas such as Tana River.
Stella Mundi Director Fr. Anthony Ndung'u reaffirmed the company's commitment to implementing the investment, saying the project will contribute to sustainable agricultural growth while supporting livestock production.
Lucerne, also known as alfalfa, is a high-protein fodder crop widely used to feed dairy cattle, beef animals and other livestock. Increased local production is expected to reduce fodder shortages and improve livestock productivity in the region.KEnayn
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