Some 6,500 vulnerable households in Elgeyo Marakwet County are set to benefit from the distribution of 13 tonnes of iron-rich Nyota bean seeds in a major push to improve nutrition and household incomes.
The exercise was officially flagged off by Governor Wisley Rotich at Chesoi Sub-County offices in Sambirir Ward, Marakwet East Sub-County, targeting farmers drawn from some of the region’s most food-insecure and malnutrition-prone areas.
Speaking during the event, Governor Rotich said the initiative, implemented under the REACTS-IN programme, is part of the county’s broader strategy to address malnutrition while empowering residents economically.
“Today we have flagged off 13 tonnes of iron-rich Nyota bean seeds for distribution to farmers in Marakwet East. This programme targets 6,500 vulnerable households, including persons living with disabilities, expectant mothers and the elderly,” said Rotich.
He added that the programme goes beyond food security, positioning farmers to generate income.
“Beyond improving nutrition, this initiative will act as a catalyst for wealth creation by enabling farmers to earn income from the sale of surplus produce,” he noted.
The Governor further revealed that an additional 20 tonnes of the same bean variety will be distributed in Marakwet West, Keiyo South and Keiyo North sub-counties later in the week as the programme scales up across the county.
County Director of Agriculture James Wekesa said the Nyota bean variety was specifically selected for its high nutritional value, particularly its iron content, which is essential in combating anemia and improving the health of vulnerable groups.
“The Nyota bean variety is rich in iron and will significantly enhance nutrition, especially among children under five years, pregnant women and other vulnerable groups,” said Wekesa.
He explained that the distribution is being conducted under the GROW ENRICH programme, which focuses on improving food systems, nutrition and livelihoods among vulnerable populations.
Evans Wanunda, a manager with World Vision, said the programme is a collaborative effort between World Vision Kenya and Anglican Development Services North Rift, targeting improved nutrition outcomes in the region.
“We are distributing 13 tonnes of beans to vulnerable households, including children under five and persons living with disabilities, to improve nutrition,” said Wanunda.
He noted that Marakwet East has a high malnutrition burden, with stunting rates standing at 31 percent. We hope to see this figure reduce significantly by the end of the project.
The programme specifically targets communities hardest hit by food insecurity, with a focus on improving dietary diversity and boosting agricultural productivity.
Governor Rotich also lauded development partners for their continued support in addressing food insecurity and malnutrition in the county.
“I extend my appreciation to World Vision Kenya and Anglican Development Services for their support in ensuring the success of this programme,” he said.
County officials indicated that similar distribution exercises will be rolled out in other sub-counties, including Keiyo South, as part of sustained efforts to strengthen food security, improve nutrition and uplift livelihoods across Elgeyo Marakwet.
By Rennish Okong’o
