Senator David Wakoli Wafula, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Livestock & Blue Economy, recently discussed key agricultural issues at the 2025 National Food Systems Summit. He addressed concerns about the declining budget allocations to agriculture, despite the sector being the backbone of the country’s economy. Agriculture has consistently contributed over 30% of the GDP, yet budget allocations to the Ministry of Agriculture have been shrinking over the years. The Senate committee has recommended increasing resources to the agriculture sector to support crucial areas such as extension services, disease control, technology, and farmers’ accessibility to inputs. Additionally, the committee is pushing for more funding from both national and county governments to ensure the success of these initiatives.
The senator emphasized the need to support specific agricultural practices in different regions. For instance, the Western Circuit predominantly grows sugarcane and maize, while Nyanza focuses on rice. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that county governments are prioritizing their local farmers’ needs and ensuring that public participation and accountability are upheld in agricultural projects. He also underscored the need for more transparent reporting of donor funds and tangible outcomes from government initiatives.
Senator Wakoli Wafula rejected the notion of interference from the national government in county-level agricultural activities, stating that the Senate’s role is to ensure that resources are well-utilized and that county governments are held accountable for their actions. He further clarified that the Senate’s oversight function is essential for maintaining the integrity of the agricultural sector.
Regarding the improvement of farmers’ livelihoods, the senator pointed to positive changes in some counties where farmers have received essential inputs and services. However, he stressed the need for a more sustainable approach, particularly in ensuring that farmers are not perpetually dependent on handouts. Instead, efforts should focus on long-term sustainability, where farmers can become self-sufficient, with continued support for value-added products such as coffee and dairy.
Senator Wakoli Wafula also discussed the need for reforms in the coffee industry, an area the Senate Committee on Agriculture has focused on. He mentioned the disparities in the pricing of coffee from different regions, highlighting the need for fairer compensation for farmers, especially those in areas like Bungoma, where coffee prices are notably lower compared to other regions. The committee is working on a coffee bill to address these issues and ensure that all stakeholders, particularly farmers, are not marginalized in the process. The goal is to enhance farmers’ awareness of their rights and the entire coffee production and marketing process.
The senator reassured farmers across the country, particularly those in Bungoma and other agricultural areas, that the committee is committed to protecting their interests. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that agreements, especially those related to the importation of wheat, favor Kenyan farmers. The committee will continue to advocate for policies that support local farmers and prevent any agreements that may disadvantage them.
Furthermore, the senator noted the Senate’s focus on the fisheries sector, pointing out that while training and resources are being provided to fishermen, there has yet to be a significant turnaround in their income and livelihoods. This issue will also be closely monitored to ensure that investments in the sector yield tangible returns.
In conclusion, Senator Wakoli Wafula reassured the public that the Senate Committee on Agriculture is actively engaged in turning around the fortunes of farmers in Kenya. Through strategic reforms and increased resource allocation, the committee aims to ensure that the agricultural sector remains sustainable and economically viable, benefiting both farmers and the country as a whole.
