RATIN

Boost for 140,000 cassava farmers

Posted on August, 1, 2017 at 09:52 am


The European Union (EU) has given Kenya 6.5 million euros (about Sh800m)to boost cassava growing in a project that will involve over 140,000 farmers countrywide.

The cassava project, to be implemented through Self Help Africa, an Irish-based non-governmental organisation, is aimed at enhancing the quantity, quality and marketability of the crop in local and international markets.

Self Help Africa will involve 28,000 small holder farmers in seven counties of Kisumu, Homabay, Migori, Siaya, Busia, Kitui and Kilifi.

“The EU cassava project is in line with the agricultural sector goal of achieving an average growth rate of seven per cent per year through increased production levels,” said Agriculture secretary Willy Bett.

“The government through my ministry will be a major partner in strengthening the cassava crop and other drought-resistant crops so as to make the country food secure during drought periods.”

Mr Bett was speaking at the launch of the Strengthening the Competitiveness of the Cassava Value Chain Programme in Nairobi last week.

He said the ministry is currently focusing on diversification of food crops to change the Kenyans eating habits and overreliance on maize as the only staple food.

Cassava is tolerant to drought and high temperatures.

Source: Business Daily