Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has highlighted agriculture as a key driver of Kenya’s economic growth, saying the sector will play a central role in industrialisation, job creation and increasing household incomes.
Speaking to residents of Limuru, Kiambu County, Kindiki said the Government was implementing measures to increase agricultural productivity while improving infrastructure to ease the movement of farm produce from farms to markets.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, a key determinant of Kenya’s success in its quest to industrialise, create jobs and provide more income opportunities for the people,” Kindiki said.
The Deputy President said the Government’s support for agriculture extends beyond direct interventions in crop and livestock production, noting that roads, fresh produce markets and other infrastructure were being developed to strengthen the farm-to-market supply chain.
Kindiki said about 1,400 kilometres of roads were under construction across Kiambu County at a projected cost of Sh132 billion.
He said the road projects would improve the movement of people and goods while making it easier for farmers to transport agricultural products to markets.
“Government is also investing in the building of roads, fresh produce markets and the provision of other enablers to complete the farm-to-market route support chain,” he said.
The Deputy President further noted that the dualling of the Rironi-Naivasha section of the Rironi-Mau Summit Superhighway was nearing completion.
He added that plans to dual the Muthaiga-Kiambu road were also at an advanced stage, with construction expected to commence soon.
On agricultural markets, Kindiki said 29 fresh produce markets were being constructed in Kiambu County to provide farmers and traders with better and more dignified spaces to sell their produce.
Kindiki made the remarks after flagging off milk coolers destined for different parts of Kiambu County.
He used the occasion to brief residents on the status of the Government’s agricultural and broader economic transformation programmes.
The Deputy President also urged residents to promote national cohesion and reject politically instigated violence.
He further called for concerted efforts to address the proliferation of illicit brews, warning of their harmful effects on public health and communities.
Kindiki was accompanied by Kiambu Woman Representative Anne Wamuratha and Members of Parliament Chege Kiragu of Limuru, Njuguna Kawanjiku of Kiambaa, Alice Ng’ang’a of Thika Town and Mburu Kahangara of Lari.
Livestock Development Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke, Members of the County Assembly, government officials, professionals and other leaders also attended the event.
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