Katilu, July 17, 2026
(Public Communication and Media Relations)
The County Government, in partnership with SAPCONE and the World Food Program (WFP), has unveiled a new initiative aimed at transforming local food systems by leveraging schools as a catalytic platform for change.
The initiative was launched during an agribusiness fair held at the Katilu Citizen Resource Center, themed “Improving Local Food Systems Using Schools as a Catalytic Platform.”
The program seeks to boost crop production, strengthen market linkages, and reduce carbon emissions within educational institutions.
Designed to empower smallholder farmers, the initiative focuses on enhancing their resilience to climate-related challenges while ensuring that students have access to nutritious meals.
A key component of the project is a home-grown school feeding program that prioritizes sourcing meals from local producers thereby maximizing sustainable benefits.
The County Chief Officer for Agriculture and Land Reclamation, David Maraka praised the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in the initiative. He emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and skills with farmers to enhance agricultural production in the region.
“The Government is committed to improving food security by providing last-mile extension services, facilitating access to market linkages, and collaborating with development partners,” Maraka stated.
John Kitui, an agronomist from SAPCONE, highlighted the dual benefits of the initiative.
“By linking school demand for fresh, local products with the supply from smallholder farmers, we are not only promoting agricultural development but also expanding market and economic opportunities,” he said.
“This initiative is about creating a sustainable food system that benefits both children and farmers,” he added.
The project also emphasizes the significance of natural resource management (NRM) and aims to reduce carbon emissions in schools while promoting energy-saving practices.
The event was attended by Edison Nyachwaye(Assistant County Commissioner), Winnie Loposh (Director for Trade), Richard Lokoyan (Director for Irrigation and Land Reclamation), Ezekiel Ichor (Director for Early Childhood Development Education), Linus Namoe (Director for Youth and Gender), Esau Emmanuel (Deputy Director for Agriculture), Mike Aupe(Deputy Director for Partnerships),and other senior Government officials.
