The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, attended the inception meeting for the Initiative for Food and Nutrition Security in Africa (IFNA) II pilot project today at the Kitui Agricultural Training Centre (KATC).
This project aims to improve nutrition outcomes by integrating nutrition-sensitive agriculture programming in Kitui County.The IFNA II pilot project, funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) with a budget of Kshs. 14.5 million, seeks to enhance dietary diversity among children under two years old, as well as pregnant and lactating women in the Ithumula village.
The project which started in March 2024 and will end on March 2025 is being implemented in Ithumula village, located in Ikanga Ward of Kitui South sub-county.Key components of the project include the distribution of kitchen gardens to 130 community beneficiaries, the provision of three rabbits (two males) to each of 130 beneficiaries, and the supply of assorted pasture seeds (four types) to 50 community beneficiaries.
These initiatives are expected to foster sustainable agricultural practices and improve local nutrition.Dr. Mbaya emphasized the county government’s commitment to supporting the project, highlighting Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s proactive approach to partnering with development partners to improve the livelihoods of Kitui residents.
“The governor has been at the forefront of such initiatives, ensuring that our communities benefit from improved agricultural and nutritional outcomes,” said Dr. Mbaya.
Mr. Emmanuel Kisangau, the IFNA project Technical Advisor, reaffirmed their dedication to collaborating with the Kitui County Government. He noted that this partnership aims to expand the project’s impact in the region, contributing to the broader goals of IFNA by fostering sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing nutrition.
The meeting was also attended by Chief Officers Jonathan Kyambi (Livestock and Apiculture) and Nathan Vungo (Water), along with other representatives from different county ministries. The multisectoral approach to the project’s implementation involves departments of Agriculture, Livestock, Water, Health, Gender, Education, and the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA).
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