The Coast Development Authority (CDA) clinched first place in Youth Activities, Empowerment and Capacity Building at the recently concluded Mombasa International ASK Show.
The award is a testament to the Authority’s relentless efforts in promoting climate-smart agriculture and trade initiatives at the coastal region.
CDA Acting Managing Director Dr. Mwanasiti Bendera affirmed that the Authority is focusing on drought mitigation projects, given that 70 per cent of the coastal region is arid and semi-arid.
“We have rolled out strategic water facilities in the region, including water dams and boreholes to ensure that communities, especially in rural areas, have access to clean water for domestic use and livestock,” she said.
CDA has also implemented various water projects in areas such as Lamu, Wasini, Taita, Kwale, and Kilifi. In addition to water projects, CDA is also promoting the blue economy, a crucial sector in the coastal region.
“We have been funded to conserve and rehabilitate marine sea grass and mangroves, and we have empowered youths and women on how to conserve the ecosystem,” she said.
The Ag. MD disclosed that they have also put forward three proposals for resource mobilization and funding, focusing on value addition in fishing, infrastructure development and boat building.
Additionally, the Authority has partnered with various institutions and NGOs to empower youths and communities.
For instance, Generation Kenya is providing training in machine operations, tailoring, and clothing texture, while the European Union has supported community empowerment programs in business premises.
At the same time, CDA is also promoting small-scale irrigation projects, such as the Chala water source development program, which has enabled farmers to increase their yields.
“We have seen farmers getting a bigger yield than before, from 16 bags per acre to 30 bags per acre,” she said.
Dr. Bendera called on more institutions to collaborate with CDA to advance food security, resource management and sustainable community empowerment across the Coast.
By Shamim Musa
