The Kenya Government, International Agricultural Development Fund (IFAD) and Trans Nzoia County Government have struck a six-year deal which will ensure farmers in the region are supported to uplift the agricultural value chain.
The deal which will be implemented through Green Farming programme will see farmers receive Sh92 million low interest loans. The programme is also being implemented in 13 other counties in the country.
The Green Farming programme is tailored to boosting farmers’ income as it promotes economic growth through supporting climate-smart agriculture.
Speaking after receiving a delegation from IFAD and the National Government, Trans Nzoia Deputy Governor Philomena Kapkory welcomed the initiative pointing out that it would help spur growth in the agricultural sector.
Affirming the commitment of the county government to the realization of the deal, Kapkory said the project would see farmers being empowered not only with the funds required to drive their agricultural activities but also with financial literacy.
“We are glad to work with you in making the initiative a great success and we will endeavor to support this course so that it benefits our farmers,” she said.
IFAD Kenya Country Director Ms Mariatu Kamara disclosed that the project would support farmers through Micro-Finance Institutions in the county including Skyline Sacco, Juhudi Kilimo and Progressive Credit.
She explained that the selected micro-finance institutions would receive funds from the Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC) and subsequently offer low interest loans to farmers at the grassroots in support of their green ventures.
Ms. Kamara revealed that Sh11m of the Shs92 million has been released through Skyline Sacco and several farmer groups have already been issued loans.
To ensure effectiveness of the initiative, the Department of Agriculture is working with Anglican Development Services (ADS) and Cordaid, in mobilizing farmers to benefit from the programme.
The groups which have been allocated the funds have kicked off their green ventures including installation of water tanks and solar energy to enable them generate enough water to undertake irrigation farming during dry seasons.
By Isaiah Nayika
