During the event, Hon. Kenneth Onyango, the CECM for Agriculture, Irrigation, Livestock, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy, ( Middle in Picture) emphasized that the technologies on display at Vicinaqua have revolutionized the way youth are involved in agriculture, particularly in the value chain. He expressed concern that agriculture had been largely left to the elderly and stressed the need for a change in this trend. Hon. Onyango underscored the importance of disseminating such technologies and skills to help shift the youth’s perspective on agriculture and empower them to become employers. He remarked, “Earning a degree is not the end goal, but it should shape your perspective toward the world.”
Madam Susan Adhiambo, Director of Fisheries and Blue Economy (right), highlighted that the project recycles waste water for both agriculture and aquaculture, meeting FAO standards for suitability. She also shared the success of the project’s initiatives, noting the creation of three companies that have generated employment. She emphasized the goal of incubating more such companies moving forward. Madam Adhiambo also spoke about the collaboration between academia, research, and practice, particularly with Maseno University and KIRDI, to enhance value addition and establish market linkages.