Governor Anne Waiguru of Kirinyaga County has intensified efforts to combat lifestyle diseases by advocating for the production and consumption of fish. According to Waiguru, the county has been identified by the Ministry of Health as having the highest prevalence of diabetes and hypertension in the region, primarily due to the high consumption of starch and red meat.
In a recent event held in Kangai, Governor Waiguru distributed 101 fish pond liners to farmers in Mwea West, highlighting the growing popularity of fish consumption within the county. This initiative is seen as a critical step in the fight against lifestyle diseases, with the Governor emphasizing the importance of dietary changes to improve the overall health of the county’s residents.
The Governor expressed concern over the substantial portion of the county’s drug supplies budget being allocated to medication for lifestyle diseases, underscoring the urgent need for preventive interventions. “We are not only encouraging our people to engage in fish farming as a way of creating alternative livelihoods but also to increase consumption to improve the nutritional status in the county,” said Waiguru.
The county’s goal is to significantly boost fish production, aiming to increase output from the current 71.3 tons to 371 tons by 2027. To achieve this, the county plans to distribute 505 pond liners, with each liner designated for one household. In addition, each household will receive 1,000 fingerlings and fish feed for the first six months, providing a solid foundation for sustainable fish farming.
A key component of this initiative is the establishment of a fish aggregation center at Kiaga. This facility will serve as a hub where farmers can sell their fish and engage in preliminary processing and cold storage, facilitating better marketing opportunities. Furthermore, the Sagana Industrial City is poised to provide a platform for farmers to sell their fish for processing, thereby adding value and enhancing their income.
During the event, Governor Waiguru also addressed water scarcity issues in the region by distributing water pipes and fittings for Kangai Ward Domestic Water Connections, which will benefit 7,500 users. “The pipes and fittings will enhance the distribution of water from KICOWASCO Bulk Water Supply. It will serve Kangai and Kathiga Locations, including Mbeti, Karikoini, Kombu-ini, and Mathigaini Sub-locations,” she explained.
As part of the county’s socio-economic empowerment program, the Governor issued 1,800 chairs to 18 groups, with each group receiving 100 chairs. The Council of Governors (COG) chair also supported local sports by providing two football teams with uniforms and distributing 45 pairs of football boots to three teams. This initiative builds on previous support provided during the Kangai Super League finals held in February at Kangure Grounds.
“Sports not only brings the youth together but also helps them realize their full potential, and I look forward to seeing Kangai teams continue shining in various tournaments,” the Governor added.
The positive impact of these initiatives is evident in the testimony of local residents. Moses Chomba, a fish farmer and member of the Kariua Youth Group, praised the Wezesha empowerment program, which has transformed the lives of many in the county. “The fish projects undertaken through the Wezesha program have really changed lives. We received pond liners, 1,000 fish fingerlings, and expert training on fish farming from the county government. After a successful harvest, we earned over Ksh 100,000, which we shared as a group and reinvested by restocking our fingerlings. We thank Governor Waiguru for providing us with means to earn an honest living,” he said.
Kangai Ward’s MCA, James Wambu, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the benefits of improved water supply for local families. “In Kangai, we have faced challenges due to water shortages. This project will ensure clean and treated water for domestic consumption, addressing the long-standing issue of water scarcity,” Wambu noted.
With these comprehensive initiatives, Governor Waiguru is setting a new course for Kirinyaga County, addressing lifestyle diseases and water scarcity while empowering the community through agriculture and sports.
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