"From Soil to Society: How Environmental and Social Factors Shape Irrigation Scheme Outcomes: A case Study of Baringo County, Kenya"

Abstract

Globally, irrigation schemes offer numerous benefits, which include improvement of livelihoods of rural farmers, enhancing food security and promoting agricultural productivity. However, irrigation schemes can also have negative environmental and social effects that need careful consideration and management regarding the use of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). This study aims to assess the extent to which environmental and social factors affect the management of selected irrigation schemes funded by Baringo County. To achieve this, a descriptive survey research design was used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. The target population of the study was 387 drawn from 10 irrigation schemes funded by Baringo County government. The study found that water depletion and scarcity to downstream users and siltation of intakes are the most common environmental issues. Majority of the respondents indicated that the most common social effects of irrigation schemes were increased employment opportunities and improved income. In addition, results showed that there exists a positive significant relationship between environmental/social effects and management of irrigation schemes (r = 0.402, p < 0.05). The study concluded that both environmental and social factors significantly influence the management of irrigation schemes. While positive social outcomes such as increased employment and income were noted, environmental challenges including water depletion and siltation were prevalent. The study recommends that the County Government strengthen environmental management strategies such as watershed protection, erosion control, and continuous monitoring of water usage. Simultaneously, social impact mitigation plans should be developed and integrated into irrigation projects to ensure community interests are safeguarded and benefits equitably distributed. Community engagement should also prioritize dialogue and resolution mechanisms to address any emerging social tensions.