The Deputy Government Spokesperson, Mwanaisha Chidzuga, has called on residents of Kenya’s coastal region to embrace large-scale farming of cashew nuts and coconuts, two cash crops that were once a cornerstone of the area’s economy. Speaking at a recent media interview, Chidzuga highlighted the potential for these crops to transform the livelihoods of local communities and align with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Chidzuga emphasized that modern technology has made the farming of these coastal crops much easier and more profitable. The introduction of grafted seedlings, for example, has reduced the time required for harvesting to just three years, providing farmers with a quicker return on investment. “I want my people to start believing in farming. Farming pays, and we have seen it work for our colleagues upcountry,” she said. “Just like coffee thrives in the central region and sugarcane in Nyanza, cashew nuts and coconuts grow well at the Coast, but we need to focus on modern and large-scale farming.”
She argued that reviving cashew nut and coconut farming would not only provide substantial income for local farmers but also contribute to the national economy. If grown on a large scale, these crops could be exported, generating foreign exchange for the country. “Farming of these two major cash crops will boost agriculture as aligned with BETA, help eradicate poverty, and empower locals,” Chidzuga explained.
Emphasizing the Need for Local Processing Industries
Chidzuga also noted that a serious commitment to farming by coastal residents could lead to the establishment of local industries for processing and value addition. “We need to practice commercial farming for the two products so that the government sees the need to have industries in the area. At the moment, if factories are created, they will need adequate raw materials to process, which we currently do not have,” she added.
She acknowledged that past governments had demoralized coastal farmers by failing to establish local processing industries. This lack of infrastructure forced farmers to transport their produce to Thika for value addition and market access. “It is the previous governments that discouraged our people at the Coast from continuing with cashew nut farming. They had to travel long distances seeking a market for their produce,” Chidzuga lamented. However, she assured the public that the current administration is committed to supporting the region’s farmers. “President William Ruto is dedicated to this cause. Once he sees the seriousness that our people will put into farming, support will follow,” she said.
Overcoming Challenges and Unlocking Opportunities
Chidzuga acknowledged the challenges faced by coconut farmers, including pests, diseases, poor agricultural practices, and substandard planting materials. Despite these hurdles, she pointed out that both cashew nuts and coconuts fetch good prices in the global market. The Deputy Government Spokesperson expressed optimism that with renewed commitment from local farmers and support from the government, these challenges can be overcome.
She also highlighted the Kenya Kwanza administration’s efforts to ensure equitable development across all regions. The establishment of the Ministry of Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, she noted, demonstrates the government’s commitment to harnessing the economic potential of the coastal region. “Millions of shillings have been set aside for the blue economy and maritime sector in the Coast region, recognizing the huge economic potential in the ocean,” Chidzuga stated.
The Blue Economy: A Path to Prosperity
Chidzuga underscored that the main economic activity for the coastal population has traditionally been ocean-based. This is why President Ruto’s administration saw the need to create a dedicated sector to explore and maximize the opportunities presented by the ocean. “The Blue Economy sector was created to assist in creating more opportunities and improving the livelihood of the people,” she reiterated.
By urging coastal residents to embrace large-scale farming and capitalize on the region’s agricultural and maritime resources, Chidzuga believes the region can reclaim its status as an economic powerhouse, ultimately benefiting both locals and the country at large.
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