Over 3,600 farmers in Kitui County have received a major financial boost after the County Government of Kitui, in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP), World Vision Kenya (WVK), and insurance partner PULA, disbursed KSh 15.8 million in crop insurance payouts for losses incurred during the October–November–December 2024 season.
A total of 3,673 farmers were compensated, with the highest number of beneficiaries drawn from Kitui South, Kitui Rural, Kitui East, and Mwingi North sub-counties. Since the insurance initiative began, 7,364 farmers have benefited, signaling a strong uptake of the risk protection program.
Speaking during the payout ceremony, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, reaffirmed the county’s commitment to mitigating climate-related agricultural risks.
“Crop and livestock insurance is not just a safety net, it is an empowerment tool. It allows farmers to invest with confidence, knowing they are protected from unpredictable climate shocks,” he said.
Dr. Kimwele further noted that the county, under Governor Dr. Julius Malombe, would continue scaling up insurance programs in collaboration with development partners to reach more farming households.
In addition to crop insurance, the county has rolled out a livestock insurance scheme under the World Bank-funded DRIVE program in collaboration with the State Department for Livestock. Since 2024, the scheme has enabled 4,328 farmers to insure 13,736 Tropical Livestock Units (TLUs), leading to payouts totaling KSh 25.17 million.
These insurance initiatives not only cushion farmers against drought and livestock diseases but also enhance access to credit, promote food security, and improve livelihoods. The county has also strengthened 40 ward-level SACCOs to boost financial inclusion.
Moreover, the programs are driving the adoption of improved seeds, livestock breeds, water-saving technologies, and climate-smart farming practices.
The initiatives align with Governor Malombe’s 16-sector development blueprint, “The Kitui Promise,” which seeks to build a resilient, food-secure, and economically empowered community.
Representing the partners at the event were Stephen Wang’ombe (World Vision Kenya), Julius Kisingu (World Food Programme), and Linda Munga from PULA.
— edited by YOANA KIMWELE
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