In the heart of Kenya’s grain-growing regions, Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi stood before a group of eager farmers at the Kenya Seed Company Kitale offices in Trans Nzoia. The occasion was the institution’s Annual Research Field Day, an event with a theme echoing the urgent need for resilient seeds to ensure food security and nutrition. Against this backdrop, CS Linturi shared an optimistic outlook, one that promises a bumper maize harvest. This article delves into the details of his predictions and the collaborative efforts driving this promising agricultural future.
The Power of Collaboration:
Agriculture, a vital pillar of Kenya’s economy, relies on a seamless partnership between the national and county governments. CS Linturi emphasized the significance of this collaboration during his recent address. He commended the harmonious working relationship between the two levels of government, which has fostered commendable development within the agricultural sector. This partnership is the linchpin of the forthcoming agricultural success story.
A Glimpse of Prosperity:
CS Linturi’s confidence in predicting a bumper harvest stems from his extensive travels across the country, particularly in grain-growing regions. His firsthand observations have led him to believe that this year, Kenya will witness a surplus in maize production. Such a prediction is not made lightly; it is grounded in the positive changes seen within the agricultural and livestock sectors.
A National Commitment:
While agriculture is a devolved function, CS Linturi assured Kenyans that the national government remains steadfast in its support of this critical sector. The commitment is exemplified by initiatives such as the fertilizer subsidy program. This program plays a pivotal role in supporting agricultural activities across the devolved units. It is a testament to the government’s dedication to fostering agricultural growth.
Governor Natembeya’s Contribution:
CS Linturi didn’t forget to acknowledge the role of Trans Nzoia County’s leadership, especially Governor George Natembeya. The governor’s commitment to modernizing farming methods, as demonstrated by the recruitment of 50 field extension officers, has been instrumental in building capacity among local farmers. This move is a significant contributing factor to the expected maize bumper harvest in the county.
Affordable Fertilizer Subsidy:
As part of the drive to bolster agriculture, CS Linturi announced a further reduction in the price of fertilizer under the subsidy program. The cost has now been lowered from Sh3,500 to Sh2,500 per 50kg bag. He urged local farmers to continue registering for this subsidy, emphasizing that it’s a continuous process aimed at ensuring accessibility to essential farming inputs.
CS Mithika Linturi’s prediction of a bumper maize harvest is a beacon of hope for Kenya’s agriculture. It underscores the power of collaboration between national and county governments and highlights the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting farmers. As we look ahead, it is evident that the seeds of prosperity have been sown, and a fruitful harvest is on the horizon.
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