Kakamega Targets Food Security and Job Growth in New Plan

The County Government of Kakamega has announced plans to boost food production as part of its strategy to ensure food security and create agricultural job opportunities across the county.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa highlighted the critical role of agriculture in driving the county’s economic growth during the World Food Day celebrations held at Mzee Joel Mmbasu's farm in Malava Constituency.

“We are here to mark World Food Day under the theme of how proper nutrition leads to a better life and a brighter future. As we celebrate this day, we must also commit ourselves to working diligently on our farms. Farming is the key to preventing famine in Kakamega. That is why agricultural development was a central issue in my campaign. I am prepared to collaborate with investors and institutions to combat hunger,” Governor Barasa stated.

He further emphasized his administration's commitment to investing heavily in agriculture, with the goal of positioning Kakamega as Kenya's leading food producer.

“As a county government, we are implementing initiatives such as providing subsidized fertilizer and maize to residents, along with distributing fish and fingerlings to farmers. These efforts aim to make Kakamega a leader in food production in the country,” he remarked.

Governor Barasa also urged the contractor responsible for constructing the Tumbeni Dairy Factory to accelerate the project’s completion by the end of the year. The factory is expected to provide a stable market for local dairy farmers and create job opportunities for the county’s youth.

“I have instructed the contractor overseeing the Tumbeni Dairy Factory to ensure its completion by year’s end. This project will create jobs for our young people and provide a reliable market for milk farmers,” he said.

The program is part of a broader effort by Kakamega County to address food insecurity while fostering a thriving agricultural sector that supports economic growth and empowers local farmers.