The Trans Nzoia County Government, under the leadership of Governor Dr. George Natembeya, has launched a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing food security by distributing free maize seeds to small-scale farmers. The program, which will benefit over 200,000 vulnerable farmers across the countyβs 25 wards, was officially inaugurated at Tumaini in Sinyereri, Trans Nzoia East Sub County (Cherangany).
Governor Natembeya emphasized that this strategic intervention is designed to increase maize acreage, enhance productivity, and address food shortages in the region, which is widely regarded as Kenyaβs food basket.
β Key Highlights of the Initiative:
- Free distribution of H516 and H513 maize seed varieties in collaboration with Kenya Seed Company.
- Aims to reduce reliance on imported cereals by empowering local farmers.
- Over 200,000 small-scale farmers set to benefit from the program.
- Agricultural extension officers equipped with 25 new motorbikes for field outreach and support.
π Empowering Farmers for Economic Growth
Governor Natembeya reaffirmed his administrationβs commitment to food security as a pillar of economic transformation. He highlighted the need for sustainable solutions that empower farmers to become self-reliant while reducing dependency on food imports.
βThe distribution of high-yield maize seeds is just one of the many steps we are taking to strengthen agriculture in Trans Nzoia. We want to ensure our farmers are well-equipped to produce surplus food, not only for consumption but also for commercial purposes,β he stated.
π€ Strengthening Agricultural Extension Services
To ensure the success of the initiative, Governor Natembeya handed over 25 motorbikes to agricultural extension officers, enabling them to provide direct support to farmers across all wards. The Governor stressed that increased mobility will enhance service delivery, ensuring farmers receive timely advice on best farming practices.
βThis move will enable our officers to visit more farmers, provide hands-on training, and assist them in adopting modern agricultural techniques,β he said.
π£οΈ Infrastructure & Rural Development
Beyond agriculture, Governor Natembeya urged residents to collaborate with their ward representatives in prioritizing road projects to improve market access for farm produce. He emphasized that improved road networks would facilitate transportation of agricultural products, further stimulating the local economy.
βThe success of our agriculture sector is closely linked to infrastructure. We are committed to improving rural roads so that farmers can access markets with ease,β he added.
πΌ Increased Maize Production & Future Plans
County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Phanice Naliaka Khatundi, reported that last yearβs free seed distribution led to an increase in maize production from 5 million bags to over 6 million bags. She expressed optimism that the latest initiative would yield even higher returns.
βWe encourage farmers to take advantage of this support, prepare their farms early, and embrace crop diversification to maximize profits,β Khatundi said.
β New Agricultural Focus Areas:
- Promotion of short-term crops such as avocado, coffee, macadamia, tea, and bananas to provide farmers with quick financial returns.
- Introduction of modern farming techniques to increase yields and combat climate change effects.
- Expansion of irrigation schemes to reduce dependency on rainfall.
π Stakeholder Engagement & Leadership Unity
The launch event was attended by several key county officials, including Deputy Speaker Obed Mwale Mahanga, Deputy County Secretary George Kisaka, and other dignitaries. Governor Natembeya called for unity among leaders and residents, emphasizing the need for collective efforts in transforming Trans Nzoia into a model agricultural hub.
βAs leaders, we must work together to serve our people and build a strong, self-sufficient county. Our diversity should be our strength,β he concluded.
A New Dawn for Farmers in Trans NzoiaΒ
With this initiative, Trans Nzoia County is taking a bold step toward achieving food security and economic empowerment. By equipping farmers with quality seeds, technical support, and better infrastructure, the county is laying the foundation for a more productive and self-sustaining agricultural sector.
The success of this program will not only enhance local food production but also position Trans Nzoia as a leader in Kenyaβs agricultural transformation.
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