PS Dr. Paul Ronoh Launches National Horticulture Standing Committee to Tackle Industry Challenges
The State Department for Agriculture, Principal Secretary Dr. Paul Ronoh, officially inaugurated the National Horticulture Standing Committee with its aim to identify emerging and addressing key challenges impacting Kenya’s horticulture sector.
This pivotal body, bringing together experts and stakeholders from both public and private institutions, is tasked to promote productivity of horticulture produce and use of technology innovations.
Speaking during the launch, Dr. Ronoh emphasized the critical role the committee will play in boosting the sector’s growth and competitiveness.
“The horticulture industry is a cornerstone of our economy, providing livelihoods for millions. This committee will serve as a platform for collaboration and innovation, ensuring we overcome obstacles and unlock the sector’s full potential,” he said.
He highlighted that the committee will address pressing issues such as market access, quality standards, climate change adaptation and value addition, aiming to strengthen Kenya’s position as a global leader in horticultural exports.
Other key among issues to be addressed by the Committee include enhancing production and productivity, enhancing market access and product diversification among others.
Stakeholders expressed optimism about the committee’s mandate, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to enhance productivity and sustainability in the industry.
This initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to promote agricultural transformation and economic resilience
The 12 members of the Committee include Collins Marangu Agriculture Secretary – Chairing,Dr. Bruno Linyiru, OGW DG – Agricultural and Food Authority, Dr. Eliud Kireger, OGW CEO – Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Prof. Theophilus M. Mutui, PHD CEO – Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service,
Floice Mukabana, CEO – Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency,
Fredrick Muchiri CEO – Pest Control Products Board, James Wachihi Muturi Chairman – County Executive Committee Agriculture Caucus, Clement Tulezi CEO – Kenya Flower Council, Hosea Machuki CEO – Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya, Okisegere Ojepat CEO – Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya, Eric Kimunguyi – CEO – AAK Grow and Christine Chesaro – Ag. Director Horticultural crops Directorate.
Making his remarks, AFA Director General Dr Bruno Linyiru stated that AFA collaborates with county government and other government agencies in the development and promotion of horticultural industry.
He noted that the horticultural sub-sector enjoys the support from various consistently partnered with government in addressing some of the challenges facing the industry, hence propelling it to be among the leading foreign exchange earners in the country.
“The inauguration of the National Horticulture Standing committee comes as a strengthening of a working relationship that already exists and we believe that it will only get better, for the industry and for the country,” he stated.
Linyiru highlighted some of initiatives undertaken including capacity building for counties to enable them support farmers, promote fairness, efficiency and competitiveness in the trading of horticultural produce, promotion of value chain addition strategies for horticultural crops, establishment of local, regional and potential global network to provide a platform for marketing, learning and information exchange among others.
