Over 150,000 widows in Kakamega County are set to receive free fertilizer and seeds this planting season to boost small-scale farming in the region.
The initiative spearheaded by Governor Fernandes Barasa has allocated Sh200 million for the exercise, a significant reduction from last year’s Sh700 million expenditure.
Governor Barasa attributed the drop to the National government’s support to the counties.
“This season, we’re committed to ensuring that genuine and quality farm inputs reach our people, especially widows, single mothers, and the youth, including Gen Z,” Barasa said during the launch of the distribution program in Butere Sub County yesterday.
He emphasized that the fertilizers being issued are authentic, unlike the substandard ones sold by unscrupulous suppliers in the Shianda market last planting season.
The program, aimed at boosting food security and empowering vulnerable groups, is expected to transform the livelihoods of thousands of households across the county.
He said single mothers and young farmers have also been included in the plan, marking a significant step towards inclusive agricultural development.
Local leaders and farmers praised the initiative, saying it will improve yields and restore trust in government-backed agricultural support programs.
Governor Barasa urged beneficiaries to use the inputs responsibly, assuring continued support to combat poverty and enhance food production.
By John Ochanda
