The Taita Taveta County government, in conjunction with the World Bank, has launched a Sh. 20 million County Inclusion Grant aimed at supporting 20 Community-Driven Development Committees (CDDCs) under the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP).
This initiative, which emphasizes the county government’s commitment to supporting agricultural development and enhancing community empowerment, is set to benefit small-scale farmers across the county.
The launch event, which was attended by Governor Andrew Mwadime, representatives from various agricultural sectors, and members of the 20 CDDCs, is expected to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve the livelihoods of residents.
In his address, Governor Mwadime reiterated the critical role that agriculture plays in the county’s economy and the importance of empowering local communities to take charge of their development.
“This inclusion grant is not just a financial boost; it is a symbol of our commitment to ensuring that every farmer in Taita Taveta has the opportunity to thrive,” Mwadime stated.
He also encouraged communities to take advantage of this opportunity to build dams in arid areas, noting that the initiative will introduce Farmer-Led Irrigation Development (FLID), enabling them to start irrigation when the rains come.
“This initiative will introduce FLID, so I urge you to use the opportunity to construct large dams so that when it rains, you can begin irrigation,” he added.
The County Chief Officer for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Irrigation, Stephen Charo, urged communities to utilize the opportunity effectively, highlighting the potential economic benefits for the county if the project is properly implemented.
“If we get an opportunity like this, let us use it well because, if implemented properly, it will benefit the entire county,” Charo said.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Irrigation, Erickson Kyongo, mentioned that the decline in patriotism within the Taita community is a significant factor hindering the county’s progress.
“Patriotism has greatly declined in our community. When it comes to development issues, people should put aside all their differences because this is what has held us back significantly as a county,” the CECM said.
He also warned CDDC members against favoritism, reminding them that they are there to serve the people of Taita Taveta County, not their families or friends.
“If you’re a member of any CDDC, you’re not there to favor your family or friends. You’re there for the people of Taita Taveta County, and we’re watching you,” Kyongo added.
Julius Kimori, a member of one of the CDDCs, expressed his satisfaction with the project and is hopeful that the grants, which will serve as revolving funds, will allow people to take loans and undertake agricultural projects, thereby commercializing farming.
“Unlike previous projects, this time we are thankful for the grants as they will enable people to access loans and engage in agricultural ventures, hence commercializing farming,” Kimori said.
With the support of the county government and the dedication of the CDDCs, local farmers are poised to achieve new heights, contributing to the county’s food basket and overall development.
