The county government of Kwale has urged local farmers to embrace agribusiness as a strategic measure to combat famine and improve livelihoods within the county. Speaking to the media in Kwale on Thursday, Deputy Governor Fatuma Achani emphasized the potential of agribusiness to significantly uplift the economic status of the county, where approximately 71 per cent of residents currently live below the poverty line. Achani highlighted that by focusing on agribusiness, the county could address food insecurity and provide sustainable income for its residents.
The Deputy Governor underscored the county government's commitment to supporting agricultural activities by providing essential resources and infrastructure. "The county government has invested in this sector by distributing 100 tonnes of free seeds to more than 15,000 farmers across the region. This is to enhance food security," Achani stated. This initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage local farmers to increase production and diversify their agricultural activities.
In addition to seed distribution, the county government has also purchased tractors to assist farmers in ploughing their fields, thereby reducing the burden of manual labor and increasing efficiency. Achani revealed that the county has implemented measures to support peasant farmers by offering free cultivating services, which are crucial for those who may not afford mechanized farming equipment.
Recognizing water scarcity as a significant challenge to agricultural productivity, the county's agricultural department has partnered with the water department to drill boreholes in all villages. This initiative aims to ensure a reliable water supply for irrigation, thereby mitigating the effects of erratic rainfall patterns that have historically affected crop yields in the region.
Achani stressed the importance of agribusiness not only in addressing food security but also in tackling unemployment. "The challenge of unemployment can be a forgotten story if we invest in agribusiness. It is only through agribusiness that we can change our lives as well as boost the economy," she narrated. By creating job opportunities and fostering economic growth, agribusiness could transform the socio-economic landscape of Kwale County.
Kwale County is known for cultivating a variety of food crops, including maize, cassava, sweet potatoes, and green grams. Additionally, the region grows cash crops such as cashew nuts, bixa, and mangoes, which have the potential to generate significant income for local farmers. The county government's initiatives aim to enhance the productivity and profitability of these crops, thereby improving the overall well-being of its residents.
