Vihiga County Government has intensified efforts to transform agricultural production through innovative and sustainable farming initiatives aimed at achieving food security and farmers’ incomes.
Speaking during a radio interview on a local FM radio station, Governor Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo said the County has made significant strides in promoting fish farming, with over 1,200 farmers now engaged in the practice, through the establishment of fish ponds.
The Governor noted that the programme, supported by NORAD and ARNSA donors, facilitated the construction of fish ponds and the provision of starter fish feeds to farmers.
To ensure a steady supply of fish and enhance production, the County established a fingerlings hatchery in Mwitoko, located in Emuhaya Constituency.
He added that a fish feed processing facility has also been set up in the area to address challenges related to feed availability and reduce production costs for farmers.
In a bid to promote nutrition and reduce post-harvest losses, the County government has as well supported traditional vegetable farmers by forming associations and equipping them with storage facilities in Chango area.
Governor Ottichilo further revealed that the County is constructing a value addition factory in Luanda under the County Integrated Agricultural Park, to enable processing and improve the market value of agricultural produce.
Additionally, an Agricultural Training Centre is under construction in Musinaka village, Emuhaya Constituency, where farmers will receive modern agricultural skills and training.
To mitigate the effects of climate change, the County has rolled out irrigation programmes in partnership with the World Bank.
The Emuhaya Central Bunyore Irrigation Scheme is already operational, while additional schemes are under construction in Banja Ward in Hamisi Sub-county and Wamuyundi Ward in Sabatia Sub- County.
The Governor emphasized that his Administration is focused on shifting farmers from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture, commonly referred to as Kilimo Biashara, to enhance household incomes.
Through support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the County has also implemented programmes in banana cultivation, traditional vegetables, and dairy farming. Over 800 dairy cows have been distributed to farmers through cooperative unions to strengthen the dairy sector.
Governor Ottichilo urged farmers to adopt climate-smart agriculture practices, including rainwater harvesting for irrigation, particularly for those engaged in vegetable farming.
He also commended the role of ‘Taka ni Mali’, an initiative that promotes conversion of organic waste into compost manure to support sustainable farming.
The County government remains committed to enhancing agricultural productivity and empowering farmers through modern, sustainable, and income-generating practices.
By Florence Oteng’o and Rose Wasike
