The government of Homa Bay County has taken significant strides to strengthen the agricultural sector by allocating grants to 15 agricultural-based savings and credit cooperatives (saccos). These grants, amounting to Ksh. 12.75 million, aim to enhance the operational capacity of the saccos, enabling them to mobilize memberships, increase shares, and boost savings effectively. This funding marks a crucial step toward ensuring sustainable agricultural financing for farmers in the region.
The initiative is part of a broader program that seeks to disburse Ksh. 37 million in inclusion grants and provide additional financial matching grants totaling Ksh. 40 million by 2027. These efforts are designed to assist farmers facing financial challenges by offering them accessible credit through agricultural saccos. Agriculture, being a resource-intensive sector, often sees farmers struggle to access necessary funds. The county government aims to address this gap, empowering farmers to invest in and expand their agricultural activities.
During the launch of the inclusion grants for ward-based agricultural saccos, it was emphasized that this initiative represents a milestone in the county’s efforts to transform agriculture into a robust and sustainable sector. The focus is not just on financial aid but also on building community capacity. By organizing farmers into cohesive groups and equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need, the initiative seeks to maximize their potential and improve livelihoods.
A central component of the initiative is the establishment of community-driven committees, sustainable land management committees, and the strengthening of saccos. These structures are expected to play a pivotal role in fostering agricultural development and ensuring the effective use of resources. By promoting formal organization among farmers, the county government aims to enhance collaboration, enable the exchange of knowledge, and provide more streamlined access to support systems.
To further support these efforts, the government plans to set up four demonstration sites in every ward. These sites will serve as hubs for learning and innovation, showcasing modern agricultural technologies, best practices, and innovative farming techniques. Farmers will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and knowledge, empowering them to adopt sustainable methods that increase productivity and reduce environmental impact.
In addition to providing financial and technical support, the county has also undertaken a comprehensive farmer registration campaign, successfully registering over 245,000 farmers. These farmers will be strategically organized into 8,000 common interest groups and vulnerable and marginalized groups. This structured approach is intended to streamline agricultural investments and ensure that all farmers have equitable opportunities to benefit from government programs.
The agricultural saccos will serve as the primary channels for implementing these programs, connecting farmers to resources and financial support. By leveraging collective resources, farmers can pool their efforts and investments, resulting in greater efficiency and productivity. This approach also fosters a sense of community and collaboration, which is essential for driving long-term growth in the agricultural sector.
This initiative is part of a broader vision to revitalize agriculture and position it as a cornerstone of economic growth in the county. By addressing financial constraints, promoting modern farming practices, and encouraging collective action, the government aims to transform agriculture into a vibrant and sustainable sector. These efforts are expected to not only improve the livelihoods of farmers but also contribute to food security and the overall economic development of the region.
The county government’s investment in agricultural saccos reflects its commitment to fostering inclusive growth and empowering local communities. By focusing on capacity building, financial support, and the adoption of modern practices, the initiative is laying the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector. Through these collective efforts, Homa Bay County is poised to achieve significant milestones in agricultural transformation, ensuring a brighter future for its farming communities.
