CS For East Africa Affairs, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands roots for farming to address poverty

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Farming

During a recent visit to Turkana County, Cabinet Secretary (CS)for East Africa Affairs, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Regional Development Authority Beatrice Askul, emphasized the importance of enhancing agricultural efforts to combat the county’s high poverty levels.

“Turkana is among the most vulnerable communities in the Country, let us therefore not compromise our working systems and rather focus on our agricultural initiatives to improve food production in the county,” she stated

She noted that key irrigation schemes in Katilu, Lokwiii, Kangalita, Kolioro, and Morulem were crucial for local food production as she further lauded the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) as one of the development partners that have contributed to the success of this scheme.

The CS noted that Turkana has the highest poverty index in Kenya, urging local leaders and farmers to strengthen their agricultural initiatives. She praised the Katilu irrigation scheme, a vital food source since 1966, which covers 1,800 acres and supports 3,000 residents.

Local farmer Gladys Ekiru shared her experiences, stating that their crops, including watermelon and tomatoes, have improved living standards and allowed families to meet educational expenses. She expressed gratitude for the World Food Programme’s support but called for better water storage solutions and financial assistance to optimize land usage.

“I am grateful to the World Food Programme for providing me with a tank for storage to water my crops. They also provide us with mentorship programs on agricultural issues. We also call financial support so that we can make good use of our land,” she expressed

Farm produce primarily serves the local market, with the excess reaching to larger markets in Lokichar and Lodwar.