Don’t dispose of Mumias assets, says Bungoma governor

Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati (pictured) has supported Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya's move to safeguard Mumias Sugar Company assets.

Mr Wangamati said the decision by the struggling miller to dispose of its assets was unacceptable as it would result in more losses for farmers and other stakeholders.

"Agriculture is our main focus as governors of Western region to ensure we produce enough food and achieve the Big Four agenda that include food security. We must safeguard the sugar industries which our people depend on," said Wangamati.

Speaking during the just-concluded Kakamega show, Wangamati urged farmers to go back to cane farming and also embrace new farming technologies.

"We need to emulate changing innovation and venture into key cash crops like cotton, tobacco and other crops like sorghum, millet and cassava," he said.

He said Western region had 6,700 square kilometres of land that is not being optimised.

"Poor production has led to food shortage. We have put mechanisms in place for Western  to be a food surplus region by enlightening farmers on farming techniques, encouraging diversification and giving out subsidised fertiliser," he noted.

Kakamega Deputy Governor Philip Kutima noted that agriculture was the mainstay of the county.

"Sixty-five per cent of the county's total earning is got from agriculture and that's why we encourage farmers that, apart from planting crops like maize and beans, they should also focus on short maturity crops," said Kutima.

He said there was also high demand for horticulture crops like fruits and bananas which he encouraged farmers to embrace.

Kenya Seed Company Western region branch manager Kate Lule said there was need to enlighten farmers since most of them lack information on the varieties to plant.

"Right information is key in improving food production and nutrition. We encourage farmers to plant indigenous crops. We are working with different organisations and stakeholders on value addition," she noted.