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Agriculture

KYANG’ONDU STOCKYARD COMMISSIONED

Livestock traders and farmers in Kako Waia Ward and surrounding areas have received a major boost with the commissioning of the Kyang’ondu Stockyard.

The facility features two livestock compartments with separate gates, a ticketing and revenue booth, a vaccination crush and a traders’ shed. It is designed to accommodate between 300 to 400 cattle.

Addressing hundreds of residents during the event, the County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development, Ms. Joyce Mutua encouraged locals to embrace the project.

Ms. Mutua further highlighted that the stockyard aligns with Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr’s vision of economic empowerment by creating job opportunities.

Attending the occasion, area Member of County Assembly Hon. Dennis Mutinda commended the Agriculture Department for its ongoing support to farmers and pledged his commitment to furthering agricultural development.

The stockyard is expected to boost livestock trade, generate revenue for the county government and positively impact the local economy.

Also in attendance was the Chief Officer Livestock Fisheries and Cooperatives Development, Japheth Kiminza along with other national and local officials.

GOVERNOR KILONZO MEETS TRADEMARK AFRICA DELEGATION ON EXPORT HUB DEVELOPMENT

On Thursday, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. hosted a delegation from TradeMark Africa to discuss the establishment and operationalization of Export Supply Hubs (ESH) in Makueni County.

TradeMark Africa, an Aid-for-Trade organization established with the aim of growing prosperity through increased trade, was led by Acting Country Director Dr. Eng. Hannah Ngugi.

The discussion centered on market facilitation aimed at streamlining horticultural export supply chains by establishing hubs to serve as county and regional aggregation centers, thereby improving the efficiency of horticultural product exports.

During the meeting, Dr. Ngungi praised Makueni’s value addition efforts, highlighting the processing of mango juice as a key initiative that enhances the economic value of local produce.

Governor Kilonzo expressed his dedication to partnering with Trademark Africa and assured his government’s unwavering support in advancing agricultural development within the county.

This partnership aims to boost Makueni’s competitiveness, increase export earnings, create jobs, ensure regulatory compliance and save foreign exchange.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, Trademark Africa’s Director of Standards Andrew Edewa, and CECM Joyce Mutua among other officials.

FARMERS IN KIKUMBULYU SOUTH WARD RECEIVE BOOST WITH IMPROVED GOATS

On Monday, Farmers in Kikumbulyu South Ward, Kibwezi West Sub-County, received 166 improved male goats valued at Ksh 2 million.

This initiative by the Department of Agriculture under the Ward budget aims to enhance milk and meat production through crossbreeding, improving market quality and boosting livelihoods.

The goats are expected to mature to a market weight within 12–18 months, with lactating goats producing 500–1,000 milliliters of milk daily.

Speaking during the handover, the CECM for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Cooperatives Development, Ms. Joyce Mutua, encouraged farmers to embrace the opportunity to improve their livestock breeds. She highlighted the project’s potential to promote growth and economic stability in the community.

Area MCA Jades Kalunda applauded the county government’s efforts, reiterating their dedication to uplifting the livelihoods of Makueni residents.

During the handover, a grateful farmer noted, “When the goats multiply, I will be able to educate my children and provide for them.”

The herd is projected to grow significantly, reaching over 1,200 goats in two years.

The event was also attended by CO Livestock Japheth Kiminza, Thange Ward MCA Eric Katumo, and other county officials.

AVOCADO FARMERS IN KAITI AND KILOME TRAINED FOR EXPORT GROWTH

On Friday, avocado farmers in Kilungu and Kilome sub-counties completed a four-day training to enhance their export capabilities.

The training, conducted by TradeMark Africa (TMA), an NGO committed to promoting trade and prosperity, with support by the European Union through the Business Environment and Export Enhancement Program (BEEEP), centered on achieving compliance with global export standards.

BEEEP is designed to boost Kenya’s export competitiveness in key agricultural commodities such as avocados, mangoes, vegetables and flowers.

The training aimed to equip participants with essential skills in proper chemical usage and hygiene practices to ensure high-quality farm produce.

Attending the training session, Agriculture Chief Officer Dr. Victoria Kyalo emphasized the importance of farmers organizing themselves into registered groups to access more trainings and market opportunities.

The session ended with plans for a certification exercise under Global Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and KEBS’ KS1758-2016 standards.

This standardization certification will enhance market access for avocado produce, leading to better prices and improved livelihoods for farmers.

The initiative reflects Makueni County’s commitment to empowering farmers and strengthening agricultural exports.

MANGO EXPORTERS MEET GOVERNOR MUTULA TO REVIEW MANGO TRADE

On Friday, mango exporters visited Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. to discuss the progress of mango exports and explore opportunities for growth.

The visit comes after the previous launch of the Makueni County Mango Aggregation Centre, which helps local farmers by providing a central hub for collecting mangoes and linking them to exporters.

The meeting, attended by CECM for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Cooperative Development, Ms. Joyce Mutua, focused on strategies to expand Makueni mangoes’ reach in the global market.

The discussions focused on ways to collaborate in improving farmer education and expanding market access to help farmers secure better prices for their produce.

GOVERNOR MUTULA HOSTS CHRISTIAN AID TEAM.

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. on Thursday hosted Christian Aid representatives from London, Mr. Nick Georgiadis and Elizabeth Walker, at his office in Wote, marking a significant step towards deepening development partnerships in Makueni County.

Christian Aid, a UK-based charity, has been at the forefront of impactful projects in Makueni, working closely with local partners such as Kitise Rural Development (KRD), Cereal Growers Association (CGA), and Anglican Development Services Eastern (ADS-E).

During the meeting which focused on water access and food security, Mutula emphasized on the importance of ensuring safe and clean water is available for both agriculture and households.

“Equitable access to water is essential for the well-being of our residents and the growth of our economy,” he stated.

The meeting, also attended by Christian Aid Kenya Board Member Ms. Pauline Nguyai, further explored on key initiatives including bulk water and irrigation projects, solar-powered water systems and last-mile water connectivity to boost food security and improve livelihoods across the county.

This collaboration highlights a strong commitment towards sustainable development and a brighter future for Makueni.

The governor was flanked by County Secretary Dr. Justin Kyambi, alongside County Executive Committee Members for Water and Agriculture, Eng. John Kieti and Ms. Joyce Mutua respectively.

CHILLI FARMING SPARKS AGRIBUSINESS GROWTH

In a move to champion agribusiness as a driver for economic growth, the Agriculture Department is spotlighting chilli farming as a game-changing opportunity for local farmers in Makueni County.

During a visit to Mwisa village in Kathozweni Ward on Tuesday, Agriculture CECM Ms. Joyce Mutua commended how Robert Kiamba has turned his four-acre farm into a thriving chilli business harvesting 4.8 tonnes of red and green chillies each week, earning Ksh. 250 per kilogram.

During the visit, Mutua applauded the dedication and innovative farming techniques. “Farming today is more than tradition—it’s a business with the power to uplift communities. Farmers must embrace market diversification locally and globally,” she said.

Robert’s success story has become a source of inspiration for fellow farmers in the region.

With the County Government’s support to farmers on agricultural extension services, chilli farming is becoming an impressive and promising venture for farmers offering high returns.

GOVERNOR MUTULA LAUNCHES STATE-OF-THE-ART HORTICULTURAL AGGREGATION CENTER AND PACKHOUSE IN WOTE.

Makueni County has taken a monumental step towards transforming its agricultural sector with the official launch of an Horticultural Aggregation Center and Packhouse by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.

The facility is set to enhance the processing, packaging and marketing of mangoes for both export and local markets.

Strategically located near the Wote Police Station, the facility is set to revolutionize the mango value-chain in the county and serve as a central collection point for mangoes from local farmers, reducing post-harvest losses. It will also provide exporters with direct access to high-quality produce.

Export mangoes will fetch Ksh. 12 per piece, while mangoes for the local market will attract between Ksh. 15 and Ksh. 19 per kilo, ensuring fair prices for farmers.

Farmers have been advised to notify their ward agriculture officers or ward administrators when their mangoes are ready for harvesting. This initiative will facilitate seamless linkage with buyers, maximizing profits for farmers.

The aggregation center is equipped to handle large quantities of mangoes, ensuring efficient sorting, grading and packaging for local and international markets.

The initiative is expected to boost incomes for farmers by providing a direct link to exporters, who previously faced logistical challenges in sourcing quality produce from the region.

For any enquiries, please contact Mr. William Mwangi the agriculture officer in charge through 0756395050.

Makueni Launches Key Publications to Enhance Data-Driven Development and Accountability

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. on Wednesday launched key publications aimed at advancing data-driven decision-making and accountability.

Governor Mutula presided over the unveiling of the County Indicator Handbook for the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023-2027, the sixth edition of the County Statistical Abstract (CSA-2024), and the first-ever Ward Development Profiles.

The newly launched Indicator Handbook provides a comprehensive set of metrics to assess progress on the county’s development agenda, while the CSA-2024 enhances access to critical data for informed decision-making.

The Governor also highlighted the county’s innovative Projects Monitoring and Tracking System (PMTS), a digital platform that allows stakeholders and citizens to monitor the status of county programs and projects in real time. The system, accessible via the county’s website, fosters transparency and provides a channel for public feedback.

Governor Mutula revealed that additional modules are being incorporated into the PMTS to improve its analytical capabilities and usability. “These enhancements, combined with annual data series developed in collaboration with Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), ensure that we have accurate, updated, and actionable data to guide our policies and accountability efforts,” he noted.

The Ward Development Profiles, another key publication, offer a detailed assessment of programs and projects implemented in specific wards over the past two years. Verified by the community and decentralized government staff, the profiles reflect the county’s commitment to grassroots involvement in development planning and assessment.

The Governor urged citizens to actively participate in the county’s development journey. “Development starts with local action. Together, we can build a brighter future for Makueni County.”

The event was also attended by Director Abdulkadir Amin Awes, representing the Director General of the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics; Deputy County Commissioner Rashid Kwanya, representing the County Commissioner; Makueni County Assembly Speaker Douglas Mbilu, Finance, Agriculture and Devolution CECMs Damaris Kavoi, Joyce Mutua and Nicholas Nzioka respectively.

MAKUENI COUNTY TO UNVEIL MANGO MARKETING FRAMEWORK TO PROTECT FARMERS

Makueni, Wote 12th December 2024.

Makueni County is developing a Mango Fruit marketing framework to protect Farmers and ensure proper pricing for the crop.

Governor Mutula Jr says the County has rolled out a series of Business to Business (B2B) meetings involving value-chain stakeholders such as lead farmers and off -takers where a framework for marketing has been developed.

“Beginning this Friday, Ward meetings are going to begin to create awareness on quantities to be off taken by different off takers, pricing and mode of payment”.

He called upon farmers to actively participate and ensure their concerns are noted and addressed through the process.

“We will say no to bad prices, and brokers,” Mutula emphasized.

The Governor was speaking while presiding over Jamhuri Day Celebrations at Unoa Grounds in Wote.

The governor outlined his government’s commitment on developing Agriculture in the county.

He also presented Ksh. 6 million to six Ward-based Saccos as part of the ongoing National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP) where the government seeks to empower 156,000 farmers with skills and resources across key value chains including mangoes, apiculture, tomatoes, dairy and poultry.

County Commissioner Duncan Darusi warned locals against vandalizing critical government infrastructure saying those involved will be dealt with.

Also in attendance were Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, County Secretary Dr Justus Kyambi and other top County officials.