Nakuru: The Nakuru County government is working on a policy aimed at revitalizing the provision of extension and advisory services across the devolved unit, which are critical for improved agricultural productivity and overall development of the sector.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Draft Nakuru Extension Services policy acknowledges that a well-functioning agricultural extension service operated by the public and private sectors is one of the critical inputs required for increased agricultural productivity to transform subsistence farming into vibrant, commercial, and modern farming; attain food security; improve incomes; and create wealth and employment opportunities.
Livestock, Fisheries, and Veterinary Services Chief Officer Dr. Michael Cheruiyot said through the document, the county's administration aims to promote inclusive, climate-resilient, and market-oriented extension services that respond to the evolving needs of modern farmers. Dr. Cheruiyot said the proposed policy has been crafted to establish minimum service delivery standards, enhance monitoring and evaluation systems, and create strong farmer feedback mechanisms to improve accountability and service quality.
Speaking at the County headquarters when the Technical Working Group (TWG) on the draft policy collected views on the document from members of the public, the Chief Officer highlighted that adequate and efficient delivery of extension and advisory services remains challenging. This, he said, has been primarily as a result of limited allocation of resources and funding for personnel, training, transportation, and physical and soft infrastructure, including ICT.
He explained that this policy intends to address effectiveness and efficiency in extension service delivery through measures that include enhancing capacity for extension through human resource management and development, infrastructure for extension, and funding. It also aims at establishing an integrated knowledge management system, improving research-extension and clientele linkages, improving coordination, and enhancing partnerships and collaboration in extension service provision.
Chief Officer for Public Participation Edward Gitau noted that the development of the Nakuru County Extension Policy reflects Governor Susan Kihika's administration's commitment to inclusive governance by ensuring that farmers and key stakeholders are actively involved in shaping agricultural interventions. Gitau indicated that the document was rooting for the integration of climate-smart technologies and drought-resistant crop advice into standard extension packages.
The Technical Working Group (TWG) is involving sector specialists, Non-Governmental Organizations, farmers, and researchers towards guaranteeing a participatory process. The Chief Officer elaborated that the draft policy aims to provide a roadmap for sustainable, data-driven, and localized extension services, noting that it was crucial for addressing gaps in current service delivery and ensuring a more structured approach to agricultural support in Nakuru County.
Subukia Ward Member of County Assembly Isabella Makori pointed out that by incorporating citizen input, the County is not only strengthening transparency and accountability but also building a sense of ownership among farmers, which is critical for successful implementation. Makori said the initiative was aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture and environmental conservation to ensure long-term food system resilience. She indicated that the policy further aims to harmonize efforts, improve service delivery, strengthen the agricultural value chain, and promote stronger research-extension linkages.