Governor Achani distributes 45 tonnes of seeds to farmers

Kwale county government has distributed 45 tonnes of assorted seeds to farmers across all the 20 wards for planting.

Speaking at the event on Tuesday, Governor Fatuma Achani said that all farmers across the county will receive the seeds ahead of the rainy season.

Achani encouraged farmers to take advantage of the initiative to improve production, especially with the anticipated rains. 

"As a government, we plan to equip our farmers with the necessary materials and tools for planting as we welcome the long-awaited rains," she said.

The rainy season is expected to set in this week, with some areas of the Coast region reporting rains.

County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture Roman Shera said the long-awaited rains present an opportunity for increased food production.

Mercy Chalika, a local farmer, said that the seeds will greatly benefit the community.

"I encourage fellow farmers to plant and take advantage of the government’s agricultural support," she said.

The seed distribution is a collaborative effort between the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Lands, Environment, and Natural Resources under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme.

The programme supports farmers by providing seeds as part of efforts to enhance climate resilience in the region.

This initiative will help farmers adopt drought-resistant crops, improve food security, and strengthen adaptation to climate change.
  
The seeds include maize, cowpeas, greengrams, and rice.

To ensure the success of the farming season, the county government has embarked on training programmes for farmers, provision of seeds and fertilisers, and tractor services.

The governor said that the county administrations assist farmers in land preparation and have employed extension officers to offer technical support.

The programme aims to boost food production and improve the livelihoods of local farmers.

Ms Achani was accompanied by County Secretary Sylvia Chidodo, CECM Education Mishi Kaole, and Chief Officer for Agriculture Joseph Jabu, among others.