Kisii Governor Simba Arati has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector after distributing 100,000 free Ruiru 11 coffee seedlings to farmers across the county.
Speaking during the flagging-off ceremony at the Kisii Agricultural Training Centre, Arati said agriculture remains the backbone of the county’s economy and pledged continued investment in programmes aimed at increasing farm productivity and improving household incomes.
The governor noted that the high-yielding Ruiru 11 coffee variety is expected to significantly boost production, with each plant capable of producing at least five kilograms of coffee cherries per season when properly managed.
“We are determined to restore agriculture to its rightful place as the main driver of economic growth in Kisii. By providing quality seedlings and supporting our farmers, we are laying the foundation for increased earnings and sustainable livelihoods,” Arati said.
He urged farmers to embrace modern agricultural practices, including proper fertilizer application, effective pest and disease control, and regular crop management to maximize yields and improve quality.
Arati further revealed that the county government has secured an investor to establish a caffeine extraction factory at the County Aggregation and Industrial Park in Bomachoge Borabu Constituency.
According to the governor, the factory will enhance value addition, create employment opportunities, and provide a ready market for locally produced coffee, benefiting thousands of farmers across the county.
He said strengthening coffee farming forms part of a broader county strategy aimed at diversifying agricultural production, improving food security, and increasing household incomes.
The distribution of the seedlings is expected to encourage more residents to venture into coffee farming and contribute to the growth of Kisii’s agricultural sector as the county seeks to reclaim its position among Kenya’s leading coffee-producing regions.
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