RICE VALUE CHAIN- MIGORI COUNTY

The Ag CEO Elizabeth N. Nkukuu accompanied PS Susan Mang'eni State Department for MSMEs Development to Nyatike sub-county, Migori County Lower Kuja irrigation scheme to propel the Rice value chain effectiveness i.e Food security as one of the key pillars of BETA.

The 19,000 Acres irrigation Scheme which has 3500 farm holders, 10,000 farmers was established in 2013 but began operations in 2019. The source of water which isn't a challenge is R. Kuja and Basmati is the type of rice grown there which takes 3 months to be harvested.

The farmers expressed their biggest fuss as Capital, lack of Market linkages which has motivated casual labouring for farmers owning farm and lack of adequate milling machinery. The PS alluded to the farmers to form small groups for easier funding and education.

The PS went ahead to question the farmers to adopt new technology of rearing "Mud fish" in the rice plantation which will not only enhance Community growth but also "Pesa Mkononi"In conclusion, she stressed the importance of repaying The Hustler's Fund by which will increase Credit Score from other lending Institutions, banks and increase individual limit.

Ag. CEO stressed that capital shouldn't be an issue if the farmers formed Hustler Fund groups and repaying after selling their produce. She also encouraged the farmers to repay outstanding loans for them have a good Chama limit.

Inattendance:- State Department's Staff, DCC Nyatike and CEC Migori among other leaders.