Governor Kenneth Lusaka has called on residents, particularly the youth, to embrace agribusiness and value addition as key pillars for economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking during the Farmers Field Day at the Mabanga Agricultural Training Centre (ATC), Lusaka reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revolutionizing the agricultural sector, which he termed the backbone of the county’s economy.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy. I urge our farmers, especially the youth, to tap into agribusiness and value addition along the value chain. That’s where real empowerment lies,” said Governor Lusaka.

The governor lauded the Farmers Field Day program for fostering agricultural knowledge exchange and innovation, adding that the Mabanga ATC remains a strategic hub for transforming agricultural practices in the region.

“The Mabanga ATC is a valuable asset. It is well-equipped to offer expertise and modern farming techniques. We intend to fully utilize its potential and make it a center of excellence for agricultural learning and demonstration,” he noted.

Lusaka revealed that the county plans to use available land at the Mabanga ATC for large-scale maize production and other crops to support the county’s free ECDE feeding program.

He further highlighted the county’s efforts to empower farmers through initiatives such as free farm inputs, subsidized fertilizer, and strategic partnerships under the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), which he said has elevated Bungoma’s agricultural profile globally.

“We have seen improved harvests across the county due to the timely distribution of inputs. I urge farmers not to sell their maize cheaply; let’s guard our gains and add value,” he emphasized.

In a show of continued investment in the sector, Lusaka announced the allocation of KSh 19 million for the purchase of a grader and the construction of a warehouse at the Musese Coffee Mill. He also disclosed that KSh 24 million has been set aside to establish a coffee roasting and packaging unit at the Mt Elgon Coffee Mill.

“We are actively engaging potential international markets for Bungoma coffee. Our goal is to ensure farmers benefit from premium prices,” Lusaka assured.

The governor reiterated his administration’s focus on transforming agriculture into a profitable and youth-driven enterprise.