Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has been feted for exemplary implementation of World Bank-funded agricultural projects under the Kenya Climate Smart Agricultural Project (KCSAP) in the county.
The World Bank ranked Machakos County in the third position out of 24 counties that are implementing the projects that aim to transform the lives of residents through smart agriculture.
Speaking at her office in Athi River when she received the award, Wavinya said her government was committed to improving the lives of its people and the award is proof of her commitment in supporting communities in Machakos.
Through collaboration with KCSAP, Machakos government was able to rehabilitate five dams that include Ukanga Utune in Kangundo and Kilaata in Ikombe ward, Kithaayoni in Kalama, Limba in Wamunyu and Kitambaasye in Matungulu at a cost of Sh83 million.
“The impact of the projects executed by KCSAP will be felt by many generations in future and my government is committed to offering lasting solutions to the challenges the people are facing,” said Wavinya.
She noted that the dams will support the county’s agro forest efforts, aid in increasing biodiversity and soil humidity for increased productivity in the farms.
The Governor added that courtesy of KCSAP, Sh62 million was channeled to cooperative societies such as Kakuyuni Coffee Co-operative Society in Kangundo and Kambusu Coffee Cooperative Society in Kambusu among others.
Wavinya pointed out that a total of 382 groups spread across the county have also benefited from a variety of grants which have been tailored to their needs such as seeds, poultry feed, ploughs and threshers.
“Our main goal is to make Machakos a food secure county and lift our people out of poverty,” pointed out Wavinya.
The trophy was presented by the National Project Coordinator Priscah Muiruri from the Ministry of Agriculture who hailed Machakos for its achievement and for being transparent in implementing the KSCAP projects.
She said the support and capacity that KSCAP is giving to farmers in the counties is in line with the government’s Bottom-up Transformative Agenda (BETA).
By Anne Kangero
