The training of the second cohort of Agricultural Extension Officers kicks off in Kisumu at the Maseno Agricultural Training Center
This follows the training of the first cohort that just ended last Friday in the same premise.
Kisumu has since freshly recruited 101 technical and 14 administrative agricultural staff who have been charged with the responsibility to disseminate technical knowledge , build relationships, foster trust and empower farmers to make informed decisions with a bid to improve food security and income to the residents of Kisumu
The one week induction session organized and supported by GIZ in collaboration with the County department of agriculture is to equip the extension officers with skills and knowledge on government policies, procedures and job familiarization.
While addressing the recruits during the induction, the CECM for Public Service, Administration and Participatory Department, Madam Judith Aluoch thanked the GIZ for the support and also congratulated the officers for being successful during the recruitment process.
As they undertake the induction, she called on them to reflect on the crucial role, the agricultural sector plays in the society, being the backbone of Kenya’s economy, providing livelihoods to a significant population in the country.
Madam Judith enumerated that nationally, agriculture contributes 33% to Kenya’s GDP with over 75% of the population engaged in Agricultural activities. In Kisumu, it contributes to 33.7% of the gross county product with approximately 62% engaged in farming which results in 47% of household incomes.
She reiterated that the agricultural sector not only generates income and employment opportunities but also serves as a critical foundation for industrialization, food security and poverty reduction initiatives in Kisumu County and Kenya at large.
The CECM through her department promised to support the extension officers in ensuring success in their mandate.
She called on them to work with passion, dedication, and commitment to service by embracing every opportunity to learn, innovate and collaborate with colleagues and the community they serve.
On his part, the CECM for Agriculture, livestock, Fisheries and Blue Economy, Hon. Kenneth Onyango called on the officers to lead by example. He challenged them to be farmers before they can advise the farmers.
He urged them to take their work seriously with the transformative agenda of improving food security as outlined in the ten key point agenda in Governor Nyong’o’s Manifesto.
The CECM called on them to upscale outreach to the farmers and adhere to best agroecological practices.
The session was also attended by facilitators including Mr. John Likoko, Dr. Odhiambo, Mr. Harrison Okello, Mr. Thadeus Ouko, Mr. Daniel Owino among other staff from the County
