By Augustine Were
Bungoma Deputly Governor Jenipher Mbattiany has welcomed the establishment of robust policies that will ensure food security and end hunger in the county.
Speaking during the launch of an agricultural policy at the Mabanga Agricultural Training Institute in Kabuchai constituency, the depujty county boss said the initiative was not only about enhancing food production but also transforming agriculture into a sustainable business that can empower families and drive economic growth.
DG Mbattiany further passionately urged the residents of Bungoma County to embrace agriculture not merely as a means of sustenance but also as a viable business opportunity.
“As a county, we are actively working to boost agricultural production through various initiatives, including access to modern farming techniques, subsidies for inputs, and training programs for farmers,” she said.
On her part, Bungoma Agriculture County Executive Committee Member Herbat Kibunguchy pointed out that recent limitations on devolved units’ abilities to fund education and agriculture can provide a viable solution for parents struggling to pay for their children’s tuition.
“By investing in agriculture, families can create sustainable income streams that support their educational aspirations,” said the Agriculture County Executive.
Bungoma signs MoU with KCIC
To ensure lasting impact, KCIC also signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bungoma County Government.
The MoU seeks to among others safeguard the sustainability of the Bungoma Business Incubation Hub beyond the AgriBiz programme and integrate the hub into county development plans for long-term agribusiness growth.
It also asked at strengthening resource mobilization efforts to keep supporting agripreneurs.
“By creating an enabling environment for agripreneurs, we are unlocking opportunities for youth and women to thrive in the agricultural sector. The launch of these policies and the signing of the MoU will ensure long-term impact beyond the AgriBiz programme,” said KCIC Director Felix Magaju.
The policies launched are: Bungoma County Agriculture Sector Policy 2023 and the Bungoma County Agribusiness Policy 2023.
“These policies are critical in ensuring sustainable agricultural practices, soil conservation, and food safety for our communities. They will also enhance agricultural governance, improve service delivery, and create a more structured and efficient agricultural sector in Bungoma,” Magaju noted.
