In a significant stride towards enhancing agricultural productivity in Siaya County, Governor James Orengo, in collaboration with the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), distributed over 30 motorcycles and assorted farming gear to Agricultural Extension Officers at a ceremony held in Nyalgunga, North Alego Ward in Alego Usonga Constituency.
The distribution of the motorcycles is poised to revolutionize the delivery of agricultural extension services in the County thus addressing a longstanding challenge of limited mobility among extension officers.
With this initiative, officers will now have the capacity to reach a greater number of farmers across the County, ensuring that they receive timely and essential agricultural support and guidance.
Speaking during the event, Governor Orengo emphasized the critical role that agricultural extension officers play, in boosting agricultural productivity and improving the livelihoods of farmers. He noted that the provision of motorcycles would significantly enhance the officers’ ability to traverse the vast rural areas of Siaya, thus improving their reach and impact.
“By equipping our agricultural extension officers with these motorcycles, we are not only empowering them, but also the entire farming community in Siaya County. This initiative will ensure that our officers can provide timely advice, monitor crop health, and disseminate vital information to farmers more efficiently,” said Governor Orengo.
The NAVCDP-supported project aligns with the county’s broader strategy of increasing agricultural output and supporting smallholder farmers. Siaya County, with its predominantly rural population, heavily relies on agriculture as a primary source of livelihood. The County boasts over 60,000 small-scale farmers who are engaged in various agricultural activities, including maize, sorghum, and millet farming, as well as livestock rearing.
The enhanced mobility of extension officers is expected to have a ripple effect on agricultural productivity. Farmers will benefit from improved access to knowledge on modern farming techniques, pest and disease control, and post-harvest management practices. This, in turn, is anticipated to increase crop yields, improve food security, and boost incomes for farming households.
The distribution of motorcycles and gear to agricultural extension officers in Nyalgunga marks a significant milestone in Siaya County’s efforts to strengthen its agricultural sector. As these officers embark on their enhanced mobility journey, the farming community in Siaya can look forward to improved access to essential services, better crop yields, and ultimately, a brighter future for agriculture in the county.
This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of both the County government and the NAVCDP, to transform agriculture in Siaya, ensuring that farmers are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern farming, while reaping the benefits of increased productivity and sustainability.
By Calvin Otieno
