The County Government of Uasin Gishu, Department of Agriculture through the Micro Enterprise Support Program Trust(MESPT) on Friday hosted financial institutions in a program seeking to support farmers’ access to the funds, strengthen food production and create more jobs in the agriculture sector.

The progamme is designed to assist farmers to confront challenges they are grappling with in their daily ventures.

Agriculture Chief Officer Mr. Elijah Koech praised MESPT for implementing the development model that seeks to enhance agriculture enterprise development, agricultural productivity and food safety by increasing financial access and inclusivity to farmers.

According to Chief Officer Mr. Koech, a lot of farmers have had difficulties with farming due to insufficient funds as most banks shy from lending to farmers due to the high risks involved.

MESPT chief executive officer Ms. Rebecca Amukhoye said that MESPT, through its Agriculture Financing (AgriFi) initiative is aiming at increasing agricultural yields, opening sustainable supply chains for farmers, and improving food security.

These funds are meant to help farmers improve their farming activities through financial support to boost food production in the country,” said Ms. Amukhoye.

MESPT is extending the loan to farmers at a 6-8 percent interest rate, with Ms. Amukhoye saying the demand has been high from growers.

Deputy Commissioner, State Department of Co-operatives, David Obonyo and over 25 financial Institutions among those who attended the workshop.