Advertisement

Kagwe sends warning to grabbers targeting agricultural society land

Kagwe sends warning to grabbers targeting agricultural society land
Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Liveatock Development Mutahi Kagwe and Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa in a meeting during the Agricultural Society of Kenya show on Friday, June 13, 2025.PHOTO/@kilimoKE/X

The Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mutahi Kagwe, has urged county governments nationwide to safeguard the Agricultural Society of Kenya (A.S.K) lands from encroachment and land grabbing.

Speaking on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the official opening of the 2025 A.S.K Kakamega show, Kagwe underscored the importance of maintaining these properties under A.S.K’s stewardship and ensuring their economic productivity.

“A.S.K. property is public agricultural land and must be safeguarded as such. Counties should not allow land grabbers or other interests to take over these assets,” Kagwe said.

He emphasised that protecting the lands is crucial for the advancement of Kenya’s agricultural sector.

He called on county administrations to support efforts to transform A.S.K grounds into centres of income generation, innovation, and youth empowerment. He highlighted the need for these spaces to evolve into hubs focused on agriculture and agribusiness.

“Individuals and groups involved in illegal acquisition of public agricultural land will face legal consequences.”

 “Agricultural Society of Kenya property is public agricultural land and must be safeguarded as such. Counties should not allow land grabbers or other interests to take over these assets.”

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe receiving a guard of honour from extension officers during Agricultural Society of Kenya show held in Kakamega County on Friday, June 13, 2025.PHOTO/@kilimoKE/X

Boosting agricultural production

In addition to land protection, Kagwe challenged agricultural extension officers and agripreneurs to adopt digital tools in their service delivery.

“Modern agriculture must be data-driven and tech-enabled. Soil testing, digitisation of extension services, and real-time access to market and input information.”

According to him, these components are essential pillars for improving productivity and competitiveness within the agricultural sector.

The CS also the Government is intentional in reducing production costs through initiative such as the distribution of subsidised fertiliser, enhanced crop and livestock productivity, the revival of sugar and tea sectors, and support for climate-smart agriculture practices.

Kagwe lauded the Agricultural Society of Kenya for unveiling its 2025–2029 Strategic Plan. He encouraged the youth to engage actively in agribusiness and innovation, particularly by participating in ASK shows which provide a platform for showcasing agricultural advancements.

 “We remain committed to working closely with counties and other partners to build resilient, commercially viable agriculture across the country,” he said.

He said the 2025 A.S.K Kakamega show provides an important forum for stakeholders in the agricultural sector to exchange ideas, explore innovations, and celebrate progress.

 Kagwe also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with counties and other partners to build resilient, commercially viable agriculture across the country.

Author

For these and more credible stories, join our revamped Telegram and WhatsApp channels.
Advertisement