Counties should strengthen agriculture despite devolution hurdles – Lusaka

County governments should take decisive measures to address escalating issues plaguing Kenya’s agricultural sector.

Speaking to County Executive Committee Members in Naivasha on November 19, Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka, who is also the Council of Governors Agriculture chairperson, emphasised agriculture’s critical role in the national economy, which contributes at least 33pc of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provides jobs for about 60pc of the population.

Lusaka stressed that agricultural policies profoundly impact both economic production and the social fabric of counties.

He called for strategies to tackle pressing challenges, including climate change adaptation, population pressures, and evolving global market demands.

In his address, Lusaka advocated for robust legislative efforts to protect county autonomy in agricultural management and urged county leaders to engage actively with Parliament on pending legislation that affects devolved functions.

Highlighting pressing issues such as agricultural financing, food safety, and land reforms, Lusaka emphasised the importance of localised, needs-based policies.

“Enhanced funding and reforms that empower counties are essential to achieving food security and building economic resilience,” he declared.

The governor cautioned against any move to recentralise agricultural functions, warning that such actions would undermine the progress achieved under devolution.

He recommended strengthening County Agricultural Sector Steering Committees (CASSCOMs) to enhance coordination and resource management in agricultural planning.

With donor support playing a vital role in various initiatives, Lusaka called for aligning projects with county priorities, effective management, and accountability to maximise community benefits.

The meeting at Naivasha’s Sawela Lodge highlighted the sector’s central role in Kenya’s development.

Lusaka concluded by emphasising collaboration, strategic reforms, and empowering farmers, stating, “The future of our food security and economic growth depends on the decisions we make now.”