By John Kariuki
During the recent vetting of Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Nominee, Mutahi Kagwe, Hon. Dido Raso, Member of Parliament for Saku, posed a critical question regarding the slow scale of food production in the country and its direct impact on the rising cost of food.
In a candid exchange, Hon. Raso highlighted that the slow pace of agricultural production is a major contributing factor to the high prices faced by consumers, stressing the urgency of addressing this issue. "The scale of production is slow, which contributes to the high cost of food. What measures do you plan to implement to expand production?" Hon. Raso asked, pointing out that sustainable solutions need to be explored to enhance the agricultural sector's efficiency and productivity.
Hon. Raso’s question comes at a time when food security has become a significant concern across the country, with many Kenyans grappling with soaring food prices. The MP emphasized the need for actionable plans to boost production, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas, which form a significant part of his constituency.
In his response, CS nominee Mutahi Kagwe acknowledged the challenges faced by the agricultural sector and agreed on the importance of addressing the production gap. Kagwe pointed out that the government plans to implement several initiatives, including increasing investment in modern farming technologies, improving irrigation systems, and supporting farmers with better access to seeds and fertilizers. He also discussed the importance of fostering partnerships with the private sector to drive innovation and improve the overall productivity of the agriculture industry.
Hon. Raso, a staunch advocate for economic development in arid regions, reiterated the need for inclusive agricultural policies that cater to the unique challenges faced by farmers in those areas. He emphasized that expanding production would not only alleviate food insecurity but also create jobs and stimulate the local economies in rural and marginalized areas.
The conversation between Hon. Raso and CS nominee Kagwe underscores the growing importance of the agricultural sector in Kenya's economic recovery, particularly in the face of rising food prices and climate-related challenges. As the country works towards boosting its agricultural output, the collaboration between policymakers, stakeholders, and local communities will be critical in ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for Kenya’s farmers and consumers alike.