By I, KNA
Trans Nzoia County government has launched this year’s “Fukuza Njaa Initiative” with the free distribution of maize seeds to small-scale farmers across the county.
Governor George Natembeya flagged off the programme at Amuka Primary School, saying the initiative is aimed at strengthening household food security and sustaining the county’s reputation as Kenya’s food basket.
The programme, which will cost Sh139 million, is expected to benefit about 231,000 small-scale farmers. According to the Governor, consistent county support to farmers over the past three years has contributed to increased maize productivity.
Natembeya projected a harvest of seven million bags of maize in the coming season, expressing optimism that favorable weather and timely distribution of inputs would boost yields further.
“We are committed to ensuring that through such well-tailored programmes, our county maintains its status as the country’s breadbasket,” he said.
He added that the county government plans to expand agricultural support through food diversification initiatives and increased distribution of farm inputs to cushion farmers against rising production costs.
At the same time, the Governor challenged the National Government to consider providing farm inputs such as fertilizer and seeds free of charge, arguing that existing subsidy programmes remain unaffordable for many struggling farmers.
Meanwhile, Natembeya urged farmers to exercise patience and wait for reliable rains before planting, noting that current weather patterns are unpredictable and could affect long-season maize production.
He emphasized the need for farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices to minimize risks associated with changing weather conditions.