Plans are at an advanced stage to set up an avocado factory in Eldoret town.
Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandago revealed that Stabex company that also engages in petroleum products has already agreed to set up the factory which will be the first of its kind in the North Rift region.
Speaking at Chepsaita in Turbo constituency on Saturday, Mandago said the factory will be set up at a cost of approximately Sh20 million.
"Have you seen petroleum company named Stabex? That company has horticulture company in Athi River called Herbex. They want to set an Avocado company in Eldoret," Mandago told locals.
The county boss further noted that the same company was also working on establishing a macadamia factory.
He noted that the coming in of the two factories will be a major boost to efforts to address increased unemployment in the country.
There have been calls for locals, a majority who are maize farmers to diversify into other crops like avocado, calls that have received opposition from a section of farmers and politicians.
"This time is about increasing production and seeking for the market. This is what we put in a lot of concern," noted Mandago who reaffirmed the need for farmers to diversify into other crops so as to boost their earnings and subsequently help in improving the country's economy.
#hivisasaoriginal