The department of Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock and Fisheries and Blue Economy takes pride in being the best County stand in the just concluded Nyanza Regional Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) show that was convened on the 24th – 28th July at the Mamboleo Show grounds.
The theme for this year’s shows is “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth” which is in line with the Government’s commitment to promoting innovation and technology for the growth of the agricultural sector, as stipulated in the Kenya Vision 2030.
While presiding over the official opening of the Kisumu Regional Show, the Principal Secretary Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh, noting that ASK shows and trade fairs are important platforms for exchange and dissemination of cutting-edge agricultural technologies, thanked everyone who contributed to the preparation of this show, especially farmers and agricultural stakeholders across our country who work tirelessly to ensure the Country is Food and Nutrition Secure.
The PS reiterated that the agricultural sector remains core to the country. The sector contributes an average of 22% directly to the GDP and another 27% indirectly, being the highest source of employment with 70% of the rural folk deriving their livelihood from agriculture. It is also the leading foreign exchange earner
Being cognizant of the sector challenges including high cost of production due to expensive inputs such as fertilizer, seeds, agrochemicals, and labor. Additionally, climate change which has led to increased occurrences of prolonged droughts and floods. Other critical challenges including high post-harvest losses, over reliance on rain-fed agriculture, inadequate access to financial and insurance services, limited product diversification, and low youth participation in agricultural development.
He said the Government has made strides in addressing such challenges through fertilizer subsidy programme that has since increased maize production in the last season by 43%.
In enhancing service delivery, the government has also launched a digital platform where farmers are encouraged to register in order to maximize the utilization of available services. The government has equally prioritized edible oils, cotton rice, tea, coffee, beef, leather and dairy value chains for accelerated promotions and development.
According to the County Executive Member, Hon. Kenneth Onyango, the department put up a breathtaking display of agricultural information section, an array display of value addition of various crops, livestock and fisheries that attracted crowds of show –goers, including college and school students.
“We have to demonstrate to the public what we are doing to help boost food production and value addition of the crops, fish and livestock we produce, adding that we want to change the way we do farming from subsistence to commercial agriculture as emphasized in the Governor’s manifesto.” Said Hon.Onyango
The Kisumu Regional Show provides an important focal point for sharing critical knowledge by ensuring exhibitors display new and emerging innovations, as well as advanced technologies within Kisumu County and its environs, in line with the National Government’s agenda on agriculture and trade.
