Agriculture remains the backbone of Busia County's economy and the primary source of livelihood for a majority of households. From the maize fields of Teso and Samia, to cassava farms across the county, to fishing communities along Lake Victoria, thousands of families depend on agriculture and fisheries for income, food security and economic stability.
Yet despite the sector's importance, many farmers and fishermen continue to face low productivity, unstable markets, post-harvest losses and limited access to value addition opportunities.
My vision is to support policies that improve productivity, strengthen markets, expand value addition and increase incomes for farmers and fishing communities.
Strengthening Agricultural Value Chains
Busia is endowed with fertile soils, favorable climatic conditions and a hardworking farming population. The county produces maize, cassava, beans, sweet potatoes, sorghum, millet, groundnuts, sugarcane and horticultural produce.
Despite this potential, many farmers continue to earn low returns because value addition remains limited and market linkages are weak. I will advocate for policies that support:
- Agro-processing industries
- Storage infrastructure
- Farmer cooperatives
- Agricultural financing
- Market access
- Agricultural innovation
Farmers should not merely produce more. They should earn more.
Revitalising the Sugar Economy
For decades, sugarcane farming has supported thousands of households in Busia County. However, challenges within the sugar sector have negatively affected farmers through delayed payments, low returns and uncertainty.
I will support reforms that promote sustainable sugar value chains, fair compensation for farmers, improved productivity and greater transparency within the sector.
Unlocking the Potential of Fisheries
Busia's access to Lake Victoria presents enormous opportunities for economic growth. Fishing and fish trade support thousands of livelihoods directly and indirectly across the county.
I will champion policies that strengthen the blue economy through:
- Sustainable fisheries management
- Fish processing facilities
- Cold storage infrastructure
- Aquaculture development
- Expanded access to regional and international markets
The fisheries sector has the potential to become a major source of jobs, income and export earnings.
Supporting Farmers Through Innovation
Agriculture is evolving. Precision farming, drought-resistant varieties, digital market platforms and climate-smart agricultural practices are transforming the sector globally. Busia's farmers must not be left behind.
I will support initiatives that expand access to:
- Agricultural extension services
- Modern farming inputs
- Climate-smart technologies
- Digital market information
- Crop insurance and risk management
Food Security for Every Family
Food security is not only about production. It is about ensuring that every family in Busia has reliable access to affordable, nutritious food. I will support policies that strengthen both production and distribution systems to improve food security across the county.