Kisumu Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Show 2023 was officially opened today by the Prime Cabinet Secretary Hon. Musalia Mudavadi.
The event held annually in the month of July is making a comeback three years later occasioned by the COVID 19 pandemic that ravaged the world between 2019 and 2021.
This year’s theme “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade initiative for Sustainable Economic Growth” is in line with the Government commitment to sustainable economic development.
Speaking While presiding over the official opening of this year’s Show, Hon. Dr. Mudavadi emphasized the need to increase production for both income and stability in food security.
He noted that the show was significant for learning best practices, new technology and innovations that are key in increasing production.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary also underscored the importance of prioritizing Climate Change mitigation measures such as protection of the water catchment areas by planting more trees.
He also awarded trophies to the best exhibiting stands in various categories with Kisumu County receiving three trophies being awarded for best agro processing stand , best stand exhibiting agricultural and earth moving equipment and the best County Stand.
The Show attracted about 150 exhibitors from all walks of life.It was also marked with entertainments from school Children, the NYS band and the Kenya Prison’s Band among others.
The show is coming one year after Kisumu hosted the most Africities Summit at the same venue which has played a pivotal role in positioning Kisumu as a Premier destination for business and conference tourism.
Agriculture being a devolved function is integral in the county agenda for ensuring that the county builds a secure sustainable food environment.
The show therefore goes along way in complementing that vision and the county is committed to playing a significant role in its planning going forward as has been the tradition.
The show Patron, His Excellency Prof. Anyang Nyongo was represented by his County Minister for Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries Hon. Kenneth Onyango.
Also gracing the occasion were: the MP Kisumu East, Shakir Shabir, The Kisumu Region Chairperson Mr. George Ong’udi, the ASK CEO Mr. Betram Muthoka among other invited guests.