Kitui Partners with SACCOs and CDDCs to Strengthen Agricultural Development
The County Government of Kitui has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (Saccos) and Community Driven Development Committees (CDDCs) under the National Agricultural and Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP) in a strategic move to boost agricultural productivity and promote food security.
The signing ceremony, held at the Kitui Agricultural Training Centre (ATC), marks a significant milestone in Kitui’s efforts to transform its agricultural sector and foster economic growth.
Led by the Chief Officer Agriculture and Fisheries, Gladys Kivoto, the MOU aims to provide farmers with improved access to credit facilities, modern farming technologies, and market linkages.
The partnership, among others, is also designed to empower smallholder farmers by addressing key challenges and unlocking new growth opportunities.
“This agreement marks the beginning of a new era for agriculture in Kitui County. By working closely with CDDCs and Saccos, we will ensure our farmers have the access to affordable resources, and support they need to increase productivity and gain better access to markets, building a more resilient agricultural sector,” Kivoto stated.
The CDDCs will play a crucial role in identifying specific community needs and implementing targeted agricultural projects.
Their grassroots involvement will ensure that resources are effectively allocated, addressing the unique challenges faced by farmers across the county.
Saccos, on the other hand, will offer farmers affordable financial services, enabling them to purchase inputs, expand their operations, and invest in value addition technologies, thus improving productivity and enhancing livelihoods.
According to Kivoto, the partnership also aligns with NAVCDP’s broader goals, which include boosting food security, improving value chains, and fostering economic resilience in Kitui.
Local leaders from CDDCs and Saccos expressed optimism, noting that the agreement would lead to sustainable agricultural development, focusing on climate-smart practices and long-term food security.