The County Government of Kitui, through its Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, has taken a bold step towards empowering farmers by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 20 cooperative societies drawn from 20 wards under the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP). The signing ceremony was held yesterday at the Kitui Agricultural Training Centre (ATC).

The MoU, spearheaded by Chief Officer for Agriculture and Fisheries Gladys Kivoto, is aimed at unlocking affordable credit opportunities for farmers while integrating them into input, service, and output markets. The agreement is expected to significantly enhance market access, promote value addition, and strengthen cooperative-based agribusiness models in the county.

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Speaking during the event, Chief Officer Kivoto underscored the importance of the partnership, noting that it would reposition farmers and cooperative societies at the heart of agricultural transformation in Kitui. “Through this MoU, farmers will be better positioned to access affordable financing, improve productivity, and add value to their produce, ensuring higher incomes and sustainable livelihoods,” she said.

Under the pact, the county government has committed to regular supervision, inspection, and implementation support. This will include monitoring and evaluating Sacco activities funded under NAVCDP, as well as reviewing relevant financial records and operational documents to safeguard accountability and ensure sustainability.

The initiative aligns with Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s broader development agenda, which prioritizes strengthening cooperative societies, modernizing agriculture, and empowering smallholder farmers as a pathway to inclusive economic growth.

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The partnership marks a significant milestone for Kitui farmers, who will now have improved access to markets, affordable credit, and value addition opportunities, ultimately transforming agriculture into a more profitable and sustainable sector.

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