By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
The advancement of Kenya’s food security efforts relies heavily on the involvement of the Kenyan diaspora.
During the official launch of the ‘BETA Kilimo’ Pre-Madaraka Day Food Security Exhibition in Bungoma County, Diaspora Affairs PS Roseline Njogu, represented by Ms. Margaret Wamoto emphasized the potential of Kenyans living abroad to contribute to the country’s agricultural development.
The PS highlighted that Kenyans living abroad can aid the country’s agricultural development through investments and sharing knowledge and skills across the agricultural value chain.
She said that there are numerous investment opportunities in agro-processing and agribusiness sub-sectors.
“The 4-day event serves as a precursor to this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, themed “Agriculture and Food Security,” set to be celebrated in the County,” Governor Fernandes Barasa said on X.
“The exhibition aims to bring together key players in the sector to engage in in-depth discussions, analysis, and exhibitions of strategies and achievements in Kenya’s Food and Agriculture,” Dr. Rono said.
This aligns with the country’s “Big Four Agenda” strategic plan, introduced by Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2017, which prioritizes food security and nutrition as one of its key objectives.
The plan aims to ensure that all Kenyans have access to nutritious food and are food secure.
This includes improving agricultural productivity, assisting smallholder farmers, minimizing post-harvest losses, and improving market access for agricultural products.
The exhibition taking place at Kibabii University from 27th to 31st May 2024, precedes the Madaraka Day celebrations in Bungoma County.
Other leaders present included Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka, Kakamega Governor Barasa Fernandes and other Government and County officials.