lowereas
A high-level courtesy call between Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe and officials from the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), led by Managing Director Prof. Theophilus Mutui, underscored renewed efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and improve farmer livelihoods across the county.
During the meeting, discussions centered on the urgent need for farmers to embrace modern agricultural practices in the face of changing climatic conditions. The deliberations focused on promoting climate-resilient crops, strengthening nursery management systems, improving pest and disease control measures, and encouraging the safe use of agro-inputs. Emphasis was also placed on capacity building for farmer groups to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and increased yields.
The leaders reflected on past collaborations between the County Government of Kitui and KEPHIS, particularly successful initiatives undertaken in 2024. These included seed certification programs and farmer training sessions conducted in Mwingi North, Kitui South, Kitui Central, and Mwingi Central, which significantly contributed to improved crop quality and productivity.
Governor Malombe commended KEPHIS for its critical role in safeguarding plant health, ensuring quality assurance, and facilitating safe agricultural trade within and beyond Kenya’s borders. He noted that the county government was keen on formalizing the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which would pave the way for deeper collaboration and expanded support to farmers.
The meeting was also attended by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, alongside other county and KEPHIS officials, all of whom reiterated their commitment to transforming agriculture into a key driver of economic growth in Kitui County.
The engagement marked a significant step toward strengthening institutional partnerships aimed at empowering farmers and enhancing food security in the region.
ENDS///…
