Kitui County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, on Wednesday appeared before the County Assembly Committee on Agriculture, Water and Irrigation to defend his ministry’s proposed budget for the 2025/2026 Financial Year.
In his presentation, Dr. Kimwele made a strong case for increased funding to key agricultural sectors, arguing that enhanced allocations would boost service delivery, reinforce agricultural value chains, and empower rural farmers across Kitui County.
“We are requesting a boost in allocations to key areas such as extension services, agribusiness, and livestock vaccinations,” Dr. Kimwele stated. “With better support, we can accelerate food security, promote agribusiness, and increase household incomes.”
The session, chaired by Kiomo-Kyethani Ward MCA Hon. Antony Musyoka and Vice Chair Hon. Joseph Mbite of Nzambani Ward, provided a platform for the committee to scrutinize the proposed spending. While the committee commended the ministry for its ongoing initiatives, members emphasized the need for clear, measurable strategies that would translate the requested resources into tangible benefits for local communities.
The budget defense comes at a pivotal moment as the county moves to align departmental spending with the broader development agenda outlined by Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s administration, which prioritizes agricultural transformation and rural development.
Dr. Kimwele was flanked by Chief Officers Gladys Kivoto (Agriculture and Fisheries) and Jonathan Kyambi (Livestock and Apiculture), who offered technical insights into sector-specific priorities.
The committee is now expected to deliberate on the submissions and table its recommendations before the full County Assembly in the coming days.
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