By Samson Wire
In a bold step to revolutionize agriculture and empower smallholder farmers, the County Government of Siaya today hosted a high-level courtesy call with the Warehouse Receipt System Council (WRSC), marking a pivotal push toward modern storage solutions and market stability.
The meeting, presided over by County Secretary and Head of Public Service Mr. Joseph Ogutu on behalf of Governor Orengo, welcomed a delegation from the WRSC led by Acting CEO Madam Lucy Komen. Key county officials in attendance included CECM for Agriculture Sylvester K’Okoth and CECM for Trade Grace Agola, alongside strategic partners from the Kenya National Farmers Federation, House of Procurement, and other collaborators.
The Warehouse Receipt System (WRS) allows farmers and commodity owners to deposit produce in certified warehouses, receiving negotiable or non-negotiable receipts as proof of ownership. These receipts serve as collateral for loans, enabling access to credit without immediate distress sales. The system tackles chronic challenges in Kenya’s agricultural sector, including high post-harvest losses—often exceeding 30%—price volatility, and limited market access.
Discussions centered on forging a strong partnership to:
– Develop certified warehouses tailored for Siaya’s agricultural produce.
– Strengthen value chains across key crops.
– Slash post-harvest losses through proper storage.
– Broaden market reach for local farmers.
– Stabilize commodity prices by allowing strategic selling rather than forced harvests.
The WRSC, a state corporation under the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry established by the Warehouse Receipt System Act No. 8 of 2019, regulates and promotes this structured trade framework nationwide. By certifying warehouses and integrating financial institutions, the system has already enabled farmers to use receipts for financing, reducing reliance on middlemen and unlocking better returns.
Siaya’s engagement aligns with broader regional efforts, including sensitization in the Lake Region Economic Bloc, where counties like Siaya stand to gain from expanded certified storage and credit opportunities.
“This collaboration is a win for our farmers,” said a county official, emphasizing the potential to transform subsistence farming into a profitable, resilient enterprise. With partners like the Kenya National Farmers Federation on board, the initiative promises inclusive growth, reduced food waste, and enhanced food security.
As Siaya positions itself as a leader in agricultural innovation, today’s meeting signals a brighter future: one where farmers store produce confidently, access affordable finance, and sell at optimal prices—ultimately driving economic prosperity across the county.
