Farmers in Nakuru have something to smile about after the county government launched a Sh 15 million financial facility to ease access of loans.
Nakuru Smallholder Association was launched on Tuesday at Old Town Hall and was presided over by the Nakuru County Deputy Governor Joseph Ruto.
Ruto said that the association would assist small-scale farmers access credit facilities.
“The association will be mandated to provide financial assistance to small farmers. They will be able to access finances with ease,” said Ruto.
He said that the county government has taken keen interests into the plights facing small farmers.
“The county government has and will be involved in assisting farmers in their challenges,” said Ruto.
Ruto noted many small farmers have been locked out by major financial institutions in accessing loans and the association has come to rescue them.
“Small -scale farmers have been unable to access credit facilities due to stringent rules but the association will help such farmers access loans,” said Ruto.
Farming has been the backbone of economy to most Nakuru small-scale farmers and the sector has not been in full utilisation due to lack of credit facilities.
Ruto also said that the association would take a major set in improving production in the county with aim of tackling food insecurity.