Author: Faith Mumo
MAKUENI SET TO WELCOME KENYA SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE CAMPUS
Makueni County is poised to gain significantly in agricultural education with the proposed establishment of a Kenya School of Agriculture campus at Kwa-Kathoka.
This is following a public participation meeting held on Monday by stakeholders drawn from Agricultural, Administrative, Business and Education sectors to discuss the project, which will be managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
The campus will offer diploma programs and skill-based short courses, designed specifically to meet the needs of local farmers and the regional economy.
Speaking during the forum, County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development Joyce Mutua emphasized the positive impact on farmers’ skills and local job opportunities that will be created upon establishment of the institution.
The Makueni campus is part of a national plan to expand agricultural education, with four additional campuses slated for Busia, Meru, Kericho, and Kilifi counties.
The meeting featured contributions from various stakeholders including Eng. Gordon Nyakiti from the Kenya School of Agriculture, Chief Officers Japheth Kiminza and Dr. Victoria Kyalo and Majority Leader Hon. Kisungi Wa Katete. They were joined by County Assembly members Hon. Francis Mutuku and Hon. Elizabeth Kawembe, all of whom voiced their strong support for the establishment of the new campus.
GOVERNOR KILONZO HOSTS RELIGIOUS LEADERS IN WOTE
Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. on Friday hosted a delegation of religious leaders who paid him a courtesy call in his office.
Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr said his government is committed to engaging the clergy in decision- making to strengthen governance and appreciated the church for being a valuable partner in the development of the county.
MAKUENI DG LUCY MULILI, TOP UNICEF OFFICIALS VISIT PROJECTS IN WOTE
Visiting Unicef delegates on Friday accompanied Makueni Deputy Governor, Lucy Mulili on a visit to Matheani Primary School to explore partnership opportunities between the County and the organisation.
The tour, which began with a visit to Unoa Primary School on Thursday, is focused on identifying how the County government and Unicef can work together to enhance Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) programs.
Key areas of potential collaboration include infrastructure development to improve learning facilities such as classrooms, sanitation and play areas and creating a more supportive environment for young learners. Also on the cards is the strengthening of teacher-training and capacity-building initiatives, equipping ECDE educators with modern techniques and resources aiming at boosting the quality of education for early learners.
Additionally, both parties are considering health and nutrition programs to support the overall well-being of children.
MAKUENI AND WFP LAUNCH MARKET ACCESS STRATEGY TO SUPPORT FARMERS
Makueni County Government in partnership with the UN World Food Program (WFP), has launched a market access strategy aimed at helping smallholder farmers connect with public markets.
The Makueni Smallholder Farmers Access to Public Institutions Markets Strategy, which will be implemented from 2024 to 2028, was officially launched on Friday by WFP Country Director Lauren Landis and Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.
The strategy will allow smallholder farmers to access 30% of the AGPO reserve designated for local products to Public Institutions as outlined in the Public Procurement and Disposal Act.
Landis praised the county government for its commitment to supporting farmers with essential resources like seeds and fertilizers, emphasizing that increased food production in Makueni could significantly enhance both the local economy and nutritional outcomes.
The launch event that drew over 200 farmers from organized producer groups across Makueni saw Governor Kilonzo express strong support for the collaboration, stating that it would boost farmers’ confidence by ensuring markets for their produce. He also encouraged them to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming rainy season, crucial for the county’s agricultural success.
The event featured remarks from Agriculture CECM Joyce Mutua and Chief Officers Japheth Kiminza, Daniel Ndolo and Dr. Jossylyn Mutua (Livestock, Devolution and Trade respectively), who contributed to discussions on the future of farming in Makueni.
