The County Government of Siaya (CGS), led by Governor James Orengo, visited Nyamburo Feeder in Usonga Ward to distribute rice seeds and fertilizers to local farmers. This initiative aims to enhance rice production across the county and aligns with the Nyalore Agenda on Food Security, which emphasizes improving agricultural productivity and establishing sustainable food systems. By providing these essential inputs, the county is equipping farmers with the tools they need to increase yields and contribute to Siaya’s food sufficiency goals.
Governor Orengo, during the visit, urged the residents of Usonga Ward to embrace large-scale rice farming. He highlighted that growing rice in larger quantities would enable farmers to benefit from economies of scale, leading to higher profits. For those without land, he encouraged leasing as a viable option to join the rice farming venture. His message underscored the potential for rice to become a cornerstone of economic growth in the region, driven by collective effort and strategic support from the county.
The Nyalore Administration is strengthening its efforts through a partnership with the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program. This collaboration is supporting rice farming in Usonga Ward by providing resources and technical assistance to farmers. Through FLLoCA, farmers are receiving training, funding, and equipment, which are contributing to increased yields and improved livelihoods. This partnership reflects a commitment to locally-driven solutions that address both agricultural and climate challenges.
Prof. Hon. Jacquiline Oduol, the CECM for Environment, Water, Climate Change and Natural Resources, addressed the community’s experience with perennial floods in Usonga Ward. She explained that the department had encouraged rice farming through irrigation as a practical response to this challenge. This shift has enabled farmers to turn a climatic disadvantage into an opportunity, leading to the progress seen today. Prof. Oduol urged farmers to remain vigilant about climate change and adopt precautionary measures tailored to each season, ensuring resilience in their farming practices.
The focus on irrigation and climate adaptation underscores the county’s proactive approach to safeguarding agricultural productivity. By integrating these strategies, Usonga Ward is emerging as a model for sustainable farming in the face of environmental uncertainties.
Mr. Sylvester K’Okoth, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Irrigation, Food, Livestock, and Blue Economy, encouraged farmers to sell their rice directly to the Siriwo Rice Mill rather than to external buyers. He explained that this approach would strengthen local farming networks, spur development, and foster growth within Usonga Ward and Siaya County at large. Mr. K’Okoth emphasized the mill’s role as a catalyst for retaining economic benefits within the community.
Mr. K’Okoth also highlighted the county’s efforts to improve irrigation infrastructure. Canals extending from Lake Victoria are now bringing water to previously unreachable areas, enabling farmers to cultivate rice year-round. This development is enhancing productivity by ensuring a steady water supply, regardless of seasonal changes. The CECM further urged farmers to join the Usonga Siriwo Cooperative SACCO, noting that membership would unlock additional support from the CGS, including financial assistance and market access.
To bolster farmer education, the Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, Food, Livestock, and Blue Economy is deploying trained agripreneurs across Siaya’s sub-counties. These personnel are teaching farmers about crop cultivation, including rice, and advising them on the best seed varieties, fertilizers, and farming techniques suited to their specific areas. Mr. K’Okoth assured farmers that the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) would soon certify their rice, paving the way for its availability in retail outlets and supermarkets—a milestone that would elevate the region’s rice to a competitive commercial product.
The day concluded with Governor Orengo issuing a cheque of Ksh. 11 million to the Siriwo Rice Mill. This funding is intended to enable the mill to purchase rice from local farmers at subsidized prices, ensuring a stable market and fair returns for their efforts. This financial injection reinforces the mill’s role as a cornerstone of the region’s rice value chain, bridging the gap between production and economic gain.
The commissioning of the Ksh. 60 million Siriwo Rice Mill in August 2024 by President William Ruto, coupled with the County Government’s comprehensive support for farmers, marks a turning point for Usonga Ward and Siaya County. Through seeds, fertilizers, irrigation, and strategic partnerships like FLLoCA that is supporting 22 projects all totaling to Ksh. 168million in 18 wards , the county is laying the foundation for a thriving rice economy.
Also accompanying the Governor were key county officials, including County Secretary Mr. Joseph Ogutu, Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) Hon. Sylvester Madialo (Usonga Ward) and Hon. Susan Okwiri (West Gem Ward), Director of Public Communication Mr. Chrispine Omondi, and Climate Change Coach for Usonga Ward Mr. Lameck Okeyo, among other notable leaders.