Farmers have been urged to join cooperatives to improve their livelihoods, increase productivity and reduce the cost of production.
Speaking in Karuna Meibeki Ward to farmers on Saturday, Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago said that through farmers joining cooperatives they will be able to get access to loans and other farm inputs at a subsidized rate.
"In this financial year we have set aside Sh70 million for the revival and strengthening of the dormant cooperatives," said Mandago.
"Farmers should come out in large numbers in cooperatives for them to access these funds since we are giving out loans at the lowest interest compared to all financial institutions at 5 percent," he added.
He added that out of the Sh70 allocated to the cooperatives Sh20 million will be given to groups that constitute women and people living with disability who are the marginalised groups for them to improve their livelihoods.
"Uasin Gishu has over 500 cooperatives, but sadly, about 300 of them are dormant. My government will channel money for the dormant cooperatives and ensure they are fully functional," said the governor.
"In this financial year, we are targeting to have at least 70% of Uasin Gishu farmers joining cooperatives for them to enjoy the many benefits that accrue to members," he added.
He challenged cooperatives to ensure they spend the money allocated to them wisely by avoiding corruption by all means adding that accountability and transparency would be paramount once the funds are released.