13 M GRANT

Boost for Kitui farmers as Sacco lands Sh13 million grant

The grants, provided by the World Bank through the National Agricultural and Value Chain Development Project, are aimed at empowering ward-based Saccos.

Kitui CEC for Agriculture and Livestock Stephen Kimwele hands over a dummy Inclusion grant cheque to officials of the Thagichu Arimi Farmers Sacco at Ciampiu chief's camp in Tharaka ward in Mwingi North on Monday.
SUPPORT Kitui CEC for Agriculture and Livestock Stephen Kimwele hands over a dummy Inclusion grant cheque to officials of the Thagichu Arimi Farmers Sacco at Ciampiu chief's camp in Tharaka ward in Mwingi North on Monday.
Image: MUSEMBI NZENGU

Kitui government has disbursed Sh13 million in inclusion grants to farmers' saccos in 20 wards.

The grants, provided by the World Bank through the National Agricultural and Value Chain Development Project, are aimed at empowering ward-based Saccos.

Leading the distribution of cheques in the Mwingi North sub-county, Agriculture and Livestock CEC, Stephen Kimwele, said the grants would enhance agricultural productivity and promote value chain development.

“The project will boost local economies by strengthening the role of Saccos in facilitating financial inclusion and improving access to agricultural services for farmers,” he added.

The first phase will help Saccos set up offices and meet operational overheads.

“The Sh13 million first phase inclusion grant being rolled out in 20 wards will cover office rent, book-keeper stipends, internet services, data bundles and Application Programme Interface,” said the CEC.

The funds will also go to the acquisition of stationery, office furniture, computers and printers, fire and burglar-proof installations and membership mobilisation.

 

Kitui CEC for Agriculture Stephen Kimwele speaking at the Chiapiu Chief's camp on Monday.
HIGH PRODUCTION Kitui CEC for Agriculture Stephen Kimwele speaking at the Chiapiu Chief's camp on Monday.
Image: MUSEMBI NZENGU

Kimwele described the initiative as an unprecedented game changer that will help ease the operations of the budding farmers’ Saccos that were in their formative stage.

“By supporting Saccos with essential resources, we are empowering them to effectively manage their operations and deliver more value to their members who would in turn improve production,” he said.

He urged farmers to join government-backed Saccos to reap benefits from the collaboration between the county government, World Bank and other partners.

“This programme, among others, also aims to enhance food security in line with Governor  Julius Malombe's development plan,” he said

The county chief officer of agriculture and fisheries, Gladys Kivoto, led the distribution of cheques to Saccos in Kitui East on Monday.

She said through the NAVCDP support farmers will access credit facilities, modern farming technologies and market linkages.

“The programme is designed to empower smallholder farmers by addressing key challenges and unlocking new growth opportunities,” she added.

She said farmers would access the necessary resources and support they require to increase productivity, gain better access to markets and build a more resilient agriculture sector.

 

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