By Shadrack Nyakoe
The County Government of Kitui has initiated a comprehensive training program aimed at empowering farmers involved in mango and poultry production across various wards.
Launched under the National Agricultural and Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), this initiative includes farmers from Kivou, Waita, and Mwingi Central wards in the mango value chain, as well as participants from Kivou, Waita, Mwingi Central, Nguni, and Kiomo/Kyethani wards involved in poultry farming.
The training, which began today in Mwingi town, is designed to equip farmers with essential skills and knowledge for sustainable agricultural practices, with a particular focus on improving productivity and expanding market access.
A key outcome of this program will be the formation of a Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) which will allow farmers to collaborate more effectively, negotiate better prices, and access broader markets.
At the launch event, Kitui Executive for Agriculture and Livestock, Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, emphasized the county’s commitment to strengthening local value chains to drive economic growth and resilience.
“Under the leadership of Malombe, our goal is to equip farmers with the tools they need to maximize the potential of mango and poultry farming,” said Dr. Kimwele. “This training and the establishment of a Farmer Producer Organization lay the foundation for a more organized, efficient, and profitable agricultural sector in Kitui County.”
He also highlighted the county’s commitment to providing farmers with access to inputs, extension services, and market linkages as part of its broader agricultural strategy.
Following the launch, Kimwele visited the Ithue Horticultural Farmers Group in Kyuso Ward, which recently submitted a proposal to NAVCDP for an aggregation center to manage perishable produce.
Group member Jack Mulinge shared his recent successes in mixed vegetable farming, inspired by new crop varieties displayed at the 2024 Kitui Agricultural Show, where he now cultivates cabbages, onions, and capsicum.
This training program is part of Kitui’s ongoing efforts to foster a sustainable, high-yielding agricultural sector that supports local farmers and boosts the county’s economic resilience.