Machakos County Government will procure certified seeds worth Sh150 million for farmers ahead of the October–December short rains.
Area Governor Wavinya Ndeti said the county government increased the allocation from last year’s Sh30 million to ensure that all farmers got enough certified seeds to enhance food security.
“Last year, farmers didn’t get adequate seeds, and that is why we have decided to set aside Sh150 million,” said the governor Thursday during a public participation exercise at Muvuti, Machakos sub-county.
The governor said the seeds would be distributed to farmers through the national government and county government administration structures.
“Chiefs and assistant chiefs will collaborate with ward administrators to distribute the seeds to farmers. Both governments serve the same public, and it’s important for the units to work together,” she said.
Wavinya urged farmers to register in the ongoing registration of farmers spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture, saying such a census would help the government plan.
“Kenya is the only country in East Africa that doesn’t have a tally of farmers, and it is vital as a country to establish a repository of farmers in the country,” she said.
She also called on residents to turn out in large numbers and enlist in the ongoing registration of Inua Jamii Programme beneficiaries.
“Older persons aged 70 years and above and people with disabilities should not be left behind; last registration residents were misled not to register,” added Wavinya.
On public participation, the governor disclosed that the devolved unit would implement projects prioritised by the residents.
“As a government, we will ensure that projects that communities have identified during the public participation session are given first priority,” she said.
Wavinya pledged to work with all elected leaders, both at the national and county levels, to foster development in the area.
“We will continue working with the national government because we can’t work in isolation. Some people think I’m lost, but I know what I’m doing,” said the governor.
By Roselyne Kavoo
