The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a week-long exhibition as part of the activities leading up to the Madaraka Day celebrations set for Saturday in Bungoma County.
This year’s theme is hinged on “Agriculture and Food Security”.
The exhibition aims to bring together key players in the sector to engage in in-depth discussions, and analysis including strategies and achievements in the country’s food security.
Several other activities have been planned to celebrate key milestones that have been achieved in promoting food and nutrition security in the country.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh presided over the launch of the Beta Kilimo pre-exhibition held at the Kibabii University.
Speaking at the event, Ronoh emphasised the need for all stakeholders and players in the sector to come up with necessary interventions to enhance access and utilisation of agricultural sector inputs.
He noted that the government has implemented significant measures to transform agriculture by offering high-quality, affordable resources.
“The initiatives that we have put in place aim to empower farmers, enhance productivity, and promote sustainable growth in the agricultural sector,” he said.
Present during the event were Governor Ken Lusaka, his Kakamega counterpart Fernendes Barasa and Diaspora Affairs principal secretary Roseline Njogu among others.
During a panel discussion, Barasa emphasised the need for the full devolution of agricultural functions to effectively address food security.
He pointed out that functions such as the purchase and distribution of fertilizer should be managed by counties as different regions have unique soil profiles.
Njogu on her part highlighted that through investments, knowledge and skills transfer along the agricultural value chain, Kenyans living abroad can contribute towards Kenya’s agricultural development.
President William Ruto made the decision to have the national celebrations themed in December 2022, a few months after he assumed office.
This, he said, is aimed at highlighting the strides made in achieving national aspirations during such celebrations.
Digital strategist Dennis Itumbi is the national chair of the National Holidays Thematic Committee tasked with coming up with the appropriate subject for the celebrations.
