The Department of Agriculture in Busia County has reached a crucial milestone in its efforts to streamline operations through the formulation of new bills. Following extensive public participation involving various stakeholders, the department has focused on drafting legislation aimed at clarifying and regulating its financial management and operational activities.
Dr. George Mukok, the County Executive Committee Member responsible for Agriculture, emphasized the necessity of establishing clear legal frameworks to support the sector’s growth. Reflecting on Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma’s agricultural revitalization agenda, Dr. Mukok highlighted the previous ambiguity surrounding financial support mechanisms. “We have been receiving financial support, but the lack of clear legal frameworks has hindered our progress. To move forward effectively, we need robust policies and legal structures,” Dr. Mukok affirmed.
Among the proposed bills under discussion are the Agriculture Training Centre (ATC) bill, mechanization bill, subsidy bill, and County Agriculture Sector Coordination Mechanism (CASCOM) bill. Dr. Mukok underscored the importance of these legislative measures in bringing accountability and coherence to agricultural initiatives. “These bills aim to consolidate various stakeholders under a unified legal framework, ensuring accountability and efficient resource management,” he explained.
The legislative efforts are also intended to address challenges such as unaccountable practices among multiple sector players and the structured distribution of donated resources like seeds. “With specific laws tailored to our county’s needs, we aim to ensure that resources, such as seeds, reach their intended beneficiaries effectively,” Dr. Mukok noted.
In preparation for the upcoming short rains, the Agriculture Department has already deployed tractors in Teso North and plans to extend these preparations countywide. Additionally, a livestock vaccination campaign is scheduled from July 9 to 24, 2024, aimed at enhancing animal health and productivity.
Ms. Beatrice Kanoti, Chairperson of the Agriculture and Animal Resources Committee in the Busia County Assembly, expressed optimism about the bills’ potential impact. She highlighted their role in expediting legislative processes and reducing program duplication, thus optimizing resource allocation within the county.
Support from stakeholders like Mr. Brian Itemesi Sande of Practical Action Busia County and Ms. Jessica Wanyonyi from Africa Harvest has been instrumental. They lauded the bills’ potential to address youth and women’s issues within the agricultural sector, promoting resilience and sustainable job creation initiatives.
With these legislative steps underway, Busia County aims to strengthen its agricultural sector’s governance, foster sustainable practices, and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for all stakeholders involved.
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