Vihiga County has showcased significant progress in healthcare, environmental conservation, agriculture, clean energy, and technology during the Mid-Term Review of its Third Generation County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023–2027.
The review forum featured exhibitions by government departments, development partners, and community organizations, highlighting innovative and community-driven initiatives that are transforming livelihoods across the county.
In the health sector, CureServicalCancer Organization Kenya outlined achievements in the fight against cervical cancer through expanded screening and treatment services. The programme, led by Country Director Samson Boiyo and Laboratory Lead Adriano Ngaywa, has prioritized testing for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and treatment of early-stage infections using thermal ablation technology.
Working closely with county and sub-county health management teams, the programme has screened more than 10,000 women in Hamisi Sub-county and over 8,000 in Luanda Sub-county, with results released within two hours. The initiative is now targeting Emuhaya Sub-county, where more than 5,000 women aged between 25 and 49 years are expected to benefit from screening services.
Environmental conservation efforts also took centre stage, with EarthLungs showcasing its “Beyond Trees” initiative aimed at restoring forest cover while creating sustainable livelihoods. Factory Administrator Philip Mwenesi said the programme promotes bamboo planting, beekeeping, honey production, and the manufacture of bamboo-based products.
The initiative has also established a bamboo nursery in Shamakhokho and supports recycling of glass and pottery as alternative income-generating activities, linking environmental protection with economic empowerment.
Meanwhile, the County Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries demonstrated integrated farming models designed to enhance productivity through efficient resource utilization. Assistant Fisheries Officer Ferdinand Orenja showcased integrated fish farming systems that combine fish rearing, poultry keeping, and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) farming.
Photo by crispinus Ivan
According to Orenja, waste generated from BSF farming is used to improve soil fertility, while nutrient-rich pond water is utilized for irrigation, enabling farmers to maximize output through recycling and sustainable farming practices. The model incorporates the farming of tilapia and catfish and is suitable for small-scale farmers with limited resources.
The exhibition also highlighted emerging transport innovations through the Vihiga County Boda Boda Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (SACCO), which showcased electric motorcycles as an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuel-powered bikes.
SACCO Chairman Stephen Makaya said the electric motorcycles can travel up to 100 kilometres on a single charge and can be conveniently charged at home, significantly reducing operating costs for riders. He added that the SACCO is introducing a three-wheeled model designed to enhance accessibility for women and persons with special mobility needs.
Technology-driven planning and development also featured prominently, with the county’s Geographic Information System (GIS) Unit demonstrating how digital mapping tools are improving project implementation and decision-making.
GIS Officer Owen Ambani said the system uses satellite imagery and remote sensing technology to map county projects, analyze climate and soil conditions, monitor drainage systems, and support early warning mechanisms. The technology also enables accurate measurement of service coverage and enhances efficiency in resource allocation.
The exhibition underscored Vihiga County’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development by showcasing practical and scalable solutions aligned with the CIDP’s vision of improved healthcare, environmental sustainability, increased agricultural productivity, adoption of clean energy, and integration of digital technologies in governance.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that continued collaboration among government agencies, development partners, and local communities will accelerate the county’s socio-economic transformation and improve the quality of life for residents.
By Crispinus Ivan
