In a significant step toward enhancing agricultural productivity and climate resilience in Siaya County, Governor James Orengo yesterday launched the Hass Avocado Farming Initiative under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program at Ralak Primary School in North Ugenya Ward.
The event marked a pivotal moment in the region’s climate adaptation and rural empowerment efforts.
As part of the launch, high-quality Hass avocado seedlings were distributed to 30 selected farmers from various sub-locations in the area. Additionally, seedlings were planted at Ralak Primary School and the adjacent Ralak Girls Secondary School to serve as demonstration sites and foster community engagement.
The FLLoCA program aims to strengthen community-led solutions to climate change by funding projects that promote sustainable livelihoods, environmental conservation, and resilience to climate shocks. The Hass avocado initiative aligns with these goals by improving soil health, preventing erosion, and contributing to carbon sequestration, thereby supporting climate mitigation efforts.
“Hass avocado seedlings are of exceptional quality and are in demand globally. In Ugenya, Professor Wanyande has already planted 7,000 trees and continues to expand his efforts. Even planting one or two seedlings can make a difference,” Governor Orengo stated during his address. “I urge Chief Officer Mr. Michael Oliech to ensure farmers receive proper training on planting and care, as this is critical to the project’s success," said Orengo.
As the first phase of a broader climate-resilient agriculture strategy in Siaya, the Hass avocado project sets a precedent for community-driven development. By empowering local farmers, engaging schools, and involving county leadership, FLLoCA’s rollout in North Ugenya Ward sends a powerful message: the path to climate resilience begins with collective action.
Governor Orengo was flanked by area MCA Hon. Benard Adala, Hon. Fredrick Opang’a (Youth Coordinator, Office of the Governor), members of the North Ugenya Ward Climate Change and Planning Unit Committee, and other county officials.
The County Government of Siaya, through the Department of Tourism, Culture, Sports and Arts in collaboration with the Executive Office of the Governor, will roll out The Nyalore Governors Cup for football men. This will be a Countywide tournament for talents identification, talent exposure and creation of temporary job opportunities for the Youth – “Kandanda Mashinani, Pesa kwa Vijana!”. The tournament shall be played on weekdays for one month, the whole of December 2023. The one month long tournament will be launched by the Governor Siaya, James Orengo on 1st December 2023 at Sega Mixed Primary School starting at 9.00am. The final match will be played on 1st January, 2024, at the Migwena Sports Group.
