Kajiado County Assembly Sectoral Committee on Agriculture, Livestock, Veterinary Services, Fisheries, and Irrigation, in collaboration with the Consumer Grassroots Association, has commenced a public engagement exercise on the Agriculture Sector Coordination Bill, 2024.
The legislation aims to streamline the management of agricultural programmes and services, thereby fortifying the backbone of the economy.
During the initial session held at Inkisanchani Kajiado South, the committee met with an array of stakeholders, including farmers and other relevant value chain participants.
In the vibrant discourse facilitated by the committee, farmers voiced their concerns about the inefficiencies plaguing current agricultural programmes.
They emphasized the need for improved coordination between different agricultural services to boost productivity and sustainability.
Tomato and onion farmers highlighted the perennial challenges they have been facing and are optimistic that the Bill will address their challenges.
Livestock keepers accentuated the necessity for integrated veterinary services, which they believe could significantly reduce incidences of disease outbreaks and improve livestock health.
Farmers also called upon the county government to develop legislation that can curb exploitation by middlemen.
In his remarks, the Chairperson of the Committee and Ildalmat MCA Joseph Mutunkei assured the stakeholders that the new legislation shall indeed ensure that the Agricultural sector provides a framework that shall bind all agricultural agencies, service providers, and value chain actors.
“The Bill seeks to establish an agricultural sector steering committee from the county to the ward level so as to coordinate all agricultural sectors, including non-state actors, whether in fisheries, livestock keeping, or agriculture, to streamline relevant policies and legislation that promote all agricultural-related activities,” said the committee chair.
The participants also urged the committee to ensure that the Bill addresses the unique challenges faced by smallholder farmers.
They advocated for policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices that would not only conserve resources but also ensure long-term food security.
Incorporation of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture was advocated for during the public participation exercise.
The Agriculture Sector Coordination Bill, 2024, aims to harmonise agricultural services, boost productivity, and enhance the overall efficiency of the agricultural value chain.
The Bill seeks to create an enabling environment that would drive innovation, reduce redundancy, and improve service delivery.
By Joshua Mjengi
