The National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP) has allocated Sh73.9 million to farmers in Homa Bay, targeting enhancements in poultry, dairy, banana, and cotton farming sectors. This initiative, funded by the World Bank, aims to strengthen the value chain by supporting 200 farmer self-help groups and cooperatives.
The funds will enable poultry farmers to build poultry houses and acquire hatcheries and feed formulation machines. Additionally, cooperative institutions will have the resources to purchase tractors and establish milk processing units for the dairy sector. The project is set to benefit over 118,000 farmers, both directly and indirectly.
During the fund disbursement event, Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti highlighted the project’s impact, noting that 20 motorcycles were also distributed to farmer groups to improve mobility and efficiency in their production activities. “I am glad that this project will have 18,640 farmers benefiting directly while over 120,000 other farmers will also benefit indirectly. We have commissioned 20 motorbikes meant to help the farmer groups in mobility while undertaking production activities,” said Awiti.
Deputy Governor Hamilton Orata emphasized the importance of the project’s continuation by the next government, underscoring its potential to uplift the lives of Homa Bay residents. “I want to encourage the incoming government to emulate what we have achieved in the agricultural sector by giving a lot of focus to NARIGP, which is significant and can raise the living standards of our people,” said Orata.
Orata also urged the farmers to become ambassadors of the project to enhance food security in the county, reflecting the broader goals of NARIGP to foster sustainable agricultural growth and community development in rural areas.