Kwale County Government has commenced the distribution of 5,000 hybrid coconut seedlings to small-holder coconut farmers across nine Administrative Wards.
This initiative by the devolved government aims to boost rural economic growth and diversify incomes through cash crop farming.
Governor Fatuma Achani says the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote agricultural sustainability, enhance food security, and boost economic empowerment.
Governor Achani noted that the devolved government has also launched a coconut farming campaign since it is a fast-growing cash crop in the coastal county.
The County Boss says coconut is a highly significant commodity in the coastal region culturally, socially and economically.
The Governor noted that in Kwale the coconut Sub-sector holds immense potential to drive economic growth, enhance food security, and promote sustainability.
She stated that these improved certified coconut seedlings are expected to enhance both the quality and quantity of coconuts produced in Kwale.
Achani said the seedlings were tailored to thrive in the local climatic conditions and seeks to empower small-scale coconut farmers to increase their yields, improve the quality of their produce, and ultimately elevate their economic status.
Speaking during the flagging-off ceremony at the Kwale County Headquarters in Kwale town, Governor Achani urged the beneficiaries to plant the trees on time and nurture them diligently to ensure successful growth.
“I urge all the beneficiaries to plant and nurture these trees diligently, as coconut farming plays a crucial role in our County’s economy,” she said, adding that the coconut value chain is among the crops being promoted by the Devolved Unit.
Achani, who was accompanied by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Roman Shera, emphasized the importance of taking farming seriously to enhance food security in the region.
“In order to ensure a food-secure Kwale, we must utilize every resource at our disposal, including these coconut seedlings. I urge all farmers to be diligent in their agricultural efforts,” said Achani.
“Under this program, the seedlings will be allocated to nine wards, with each ward receiving 555 seedlings,” She added.
Achani said that the event marked a significant step toward the growth and prosperity of the County’s nascent coconut industry and emphasized the County’s dedication to agricultural development and the potential for local industrialization and economic enhancement.
She said the areas that will benefit from the distribution exercise are Tsimba/Golini, Mkongani, Kubo South, Ramisi, Kinondo, Bongwe/Gombato, Vanga, Dzombo, and Pongwe/Kikoneni wards.
Achani explained that the County carefully selected the nine major coconut-producing wards as beneficiaries because of their optimal production, adding that other wards where climatic conditions are favorable would benefit soon.
The Governor assured farmers that all County-owned tractors with mechanical issues would be repaired to support land preparation and enhance productivity.
County Agriculture Executive, Roman Shera, encouraged the coconut farmers to embrace the opportunity with enthusiasm and determination.
Shera said in addition to the seedlings the County government is committed to providing the necessary support, training, and provision of resources to help local farmers maximize their coconut farming potentials.
The Agriculture Executive said the new variety the farmers received is resistant to many common coconut diseases thus reducing the need for chemical treatments adding that they start bearing fruits earlier than many other varieties leading to quicker returns on investment.
Karama Pore, Chair of the Agriculture Committee in Tsimba/Golini Ward, expressed gratitude to the County government for its support.
Pore while taking the delivery of the seedlings highlighted the economic significance of coconut farming in the coastal region and urged residents to plant more trees rather than cutting them down for building materials.
“Coconut is the cash crop of the coastal region. Let’s protect and expand our coconut farming instead of destroying these valuable trees,” said pore.
The primary product from coconuts is cooking oil, which is widely used in households and the food industry.
Additionally, the shells are utilized as firewood and are crafted into ornaments and handicrafts, providing income for local artisans.
By Hussein Abdullahi
