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President William Ruto has announced a transformative initiative, the Guaranteed Minimum Returns
program aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector and empowering farmers across Kenya. During a
public meeting in Karatina, Nyeri County, the President pledged to ensure farmers’ stable income even
in challenging market conditions, to break the cycle of poverty prevalent in farming communities.
“We must break the poverty cycle that is associated with farming in our country,” President Ruto
asserted passionately, highlighting his desire to see farmers profit from their economic activities.
To reinforce the success of this program, the government plans to invest substantially in agro-
processing and value addition, further enhancing agriculture as a profit-making venture. This strategic
investment is expected to open up new avenues for farmers to earn more and lead to long-term
economic growth.
The President’s commitment to uplifting the farming community was evident throughout his five-day working tour of Mt Kenya. Notably, President Ruto inaugurated the Githurai Market, a vital project that
will boost local economic activities and improve living standards. Additionally, he commissioned the Ruiru-Juja and Greater Githurai Water Project, which is set to serve more than 500,000 people in Ruiru,
Githurai, Mwihoko and Kahawa, providing much-needed access to clean water and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
In Kirinyaga, another crucial project was launched by President Ruto – the Kagio Water Supply Project.
This endeavor is expected to significantly increase the rice acreage by 10,000, thus substantially
boosting rice production in the region.
“The sustained supply of water for irrigation in Kirinyaga will increase rice acreage by 10,000 and boost
production,” President Ruto emphasized, recognizing the transformative impact such projects can have
on regional agriculture.
Clarifying the bipartisan talks that have been underway, President Ruto assured the public that their purpose was not to form a Handshake or share positions in the Government. Instead, the focus has been on implementing policies that directly benefit the people, with the Guaranteed Minimum Returns program being one of the key measures to uplift farmers and revitalize the agricultural sector.
The public meeting in Karatina saw the attendance of several influential political figures, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and various Cabinet Secretaries and Governors. Their presence underscores the importance and support for the Guaranteed Minimum Returns program.
With the announcement of the Guaranteed Minimum Returns program and the Government’s proactive investments in agro-processing and infrastructure, this initiative is poised to bring about significant economic growth, create new opportunities for farmers, and foster a brighter future for Kenya’s agricultural sector.
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