ADVERT 
Siaya County has taken a bold step toward transforming its agricultural future after hosting a high-level delegation from North Carolina State University (USA) in a move set to redefine extension service delivery and unlock new opportunities for farmers.
On behalf of Governor James Orengo, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Food Security, Livestock and Blue Economy, Hon. Willis Ochieng, led the engagement aimed at deepening a strategic partnership anchored on a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The collaboration seeks to overhaul Siaya’s agricultural extension system by making it more coordinated, efficient, and farmer-centered. At its core, the partnership emphasizes capacity building, applied research, and education—key pillars expected to equip farmers with modern skills while strengthening institutional support.
Discussions between county officials and the US-based university focused on aligning long-term strategies that will nurture a new generation of agricultural leaders while accelerating sustainable transformation across farming communities.
Aquaculture has been selected as the pilot value chain under the initiative, signaling a major shift toward blue economy opportunities. Planned interventions include improved fish feed formulation, establishment of modern hatcheries, introduction of superior fish breeds, value addition, and the adoption of innovative technologies to boost productivity and profitability.
The program will be implemented in collaboration with leading local institutions, including the University of Nairobi and the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KeMFRI). By leveraging cutting-edge research, innovation, and technical expertise, the partnership aims to enhance agricultural productivity, create employment opportunities, and strengthen livelihoods across Siaya County.
The move positions Siaya as a forward-looking county embracing global partnerships to solve local challenges, with agriculture—and now aquaculture—at the center of its economic transformation agenda.
