King Letsie III of Lesotho applauds Taita Taveta’s push for agricultural value addition

Taita Taveta County’s investment in agricultural value addition has received international recognition after King Letsie III of Lesotho commended the county’s efforts to boost food security through agro-processing during an official visit to the county.

The King said the establishment of the Taveta Sunflower Growers Oil Processing Plant and the completion of a modern rice milling plant demonstrated how investments in processing agricultural produce could strengthen food security, improve farmers’ incomes and stimulate local economic activity.

He noted that value addition also helps reduce post-harvest losses while creating employment opportunities and building more resilient food systems.

The monarch made the remarks after commissioning the sunflower oil processing plant and touring the newly completed rice milling facility, where he was briefed on the county’s agricultural initiatives.

Governor Andrew Mwadime said the county government had prioritised investments in value addition as part of efforts to strengthen agriculture and improve livelihoods.

He said the administration was also expanding irrigation, promoting the adoption of modern farming technologies and improving market access for farmers.

“We have focused on value addition, equipping farmers with modern production technologies, expanding irrigation and creating sustainable markets that will enhance household incomes while positioning Taita Taveta as a food-secure and economically resilient county,” Mwadime said.

Kenya Red Cross Society Secretary General Ahmed Idris, who accompanied the delegation, said partnerships between governments and development organisations remained important in addressing food security, climate resilience and community livelihood challenges.

“Strong collaboration between governments and development partners remains essential in improving the welfare of local communities,” he said.

Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo said the sunflower oil processing plant and the rice milling facility were expected to improve opportunities for local farmers by enabling more agricultural produce to be processed within the county.

The visit by King Letsie III placed a spotlight on Taita Taveta’s investment in agricultural processing, with county leaders presenting value addition as a key strategy for strengthening food production and supporting local farmers.