At the Pre-Devolution Conference held yesterday at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya Town, a quiet revolution unfolded, blending age-old knowledge with modern innovation.
Among the many exhibits, one initiative stood out: the innovative use of traditional medicine to empower women and youth economically while improving community health. Led by pioneers like Dr. Tobias Arudo Opiyo from Janam Model Farm in West Uyoma Ward, Rarieda Sub-County, near Misori Primary School, the showcase demonstrated how indigenous knowledge is being transformed into high-value products.
At Janam Model Farm, Mr. Arudo dehydrates guava leaves valued for their healing properties, grinds them into powder, and packages them as chemical-free capsules with no known side effects. These shelf-stable, user-friendly capsules make herbal medicine accessible to younger generations and health-conscious consumers.
Chia seed oil is another success story. Women-led cooperatives are cultivating chia and extracting its oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. As demand for natural, health-promoting products grows, this oil is gaining traction in local and international markets. Beyond health benefits, the project creates jobs, builds skills, and generates income for rural women.
In animal-based products, local fish farmers are innovating by processing catfish with turmeric, ginger, and avocado to create nutrient-dense, heart-healthy products. Rich in phosphorus to support blood circulation, these blends also offer medicinal benefits, with some formulations reportedly supporting prostate health—a growing concern among African men.
Janam Model Farm was a standout participant at the Pre-Devolution Conference Innovation Exhibition, hosted by the County Government of Siaya. The event was presided over by the Speaker of the County Assembly, Rt. Hon. George Okode, alongside leaders including Majority Leader Hon. Martin Otieno (Ugunja Ward), County Secretary Mr. Joseph Ogutu, 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.
