Trans Nzoia County kicked off the 2024 Kitale Agricultural Show, emphasizing climate-smart agriculture and sustainable trade practices. Deputy Governor Philomenah Kapkory, representing Governor George Natembeya, outlined the county’s commitment to boosting food security and adapting to climate challenges through innovative farming techniques and improved market access for local farmers.
Theme and Focus:
The theme for this year’s show is “Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth.” Highlighting the county’s agricultural significance, Kapkory proudly noted, “We are the highest maize producer in the country, contributing about 40% of the national production. This positions our county at the heart of national food security, necessitating our investment in enhancing productivity.”
Climate Change Challenges:
Kapkory also addressed the challenges posed by climate change, such as prolonged dry spells, flooding, and the emergence of pests and diseases. She emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable practices to mitigate these effects and outlined some of the county’s key environmental challenges, including deforestation and poor agricultural practices.
In response, Trans Nzoia has launched initiatives like the “One Million Trees” project, which aims to plant one million trees annually to combat deforestation and restore ecological balance. “Our administration has put in place climate change mitigation measures that will help safeguard our environment for future generations,” said Kapkory.
Addressing Agricultural Pests and Diseases:
Kapkory highlighted issues like the Fall Armyworm and Maize Lethal Necrosis Disease, which threaten crop production, as well as livestock diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease. The county government is educating farmers on safe chemical use and promoting integrated pest management techniques to address these challenges.
Empowering Farmers with Knowledge and Resources:
The show provided a valuable platform for farmers to access modern farming techniques that can help them adapt to climate challenges. “This show is an opportunity to access the latest technologies, network with experts, and establish business linkages that will transform agriculture from subsistence to commercial and market-oriented farming,” Kapkory stated.
Support for Vulnerable Farmers:
Kapkory also highlighted the “Fukuza Njaa” (Eliminate Hunger) Initiative, which has provided 2kg of quality seeds to 153,000 vulnerable farmers, resulting in an additional 300,000 bags of maize during last season’s harvest. The county’s crop and livestock diversification program encourages the cultivation of high-value crops like sunflowers, avocados, and macadamia, while also promoting poultry and dairy farming.
Infrastructure and Trade Initiatives:
The county has made strides in improving agricultural infrastructure, including a new chicken slaughter facility in Matisi Ward with a capacity to process 1,200 birds per hour, and two milk processing plants, each with a daily capacity of 16,000 liters. Additionally, the County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP), developed in partnership with the national government, aims to centralize the processing and marketing of agricultural produce, enabling farmers to secure fair prices for their products.
Advancements in the Fisheries Sub-Sector:
The county has also focused on boosting aquaculture. “We now have 1,939 aquaculture farmers producing 7,437 tons of fish annually,” Kapkory reported. Support for this sector includes providing quality fingerlings, constructing additional fish ponds, and offering fish harvesting equipment to local farmers.
Conclusion:
Deputy Governor Kapkory emphasized the county government’s commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural and trade practices. “Together, we can champion climate-smart agriculture, support our farmers, and drive initiatives that foster sustainable economic growth,” she said.
She also encouraged visitors to explore Trans Nzoia’s tourist attractions, highlighting the county’s potential as a tourism destination beyond its agricultural achievements. The 2024 Kitale ASK Show will continue throughout the week, offering exhibitions, demonstrations, and networking opportunities to advance the county’s agricultural sector.
