2007 Elections

ODM pledges to revamp farming in 19-point plan

Details

Published on Thursday, 06 December 2007 08:29

ODM Wednesday took its campaigns to Kisii, where it unveiled a blueprint on how it plans to develop the region should it win the December 27 election. 

Mrs Ida Odinga, wife of ODM presidential candidate Raila Odinga, addresses a rally at Rianyabaro school grounds in Bonchari constitunecy yesterday. Photo/JACOB OWITI

On Wednesday, Mr Odinga said the region had been ignored by successive governments. 

“Kisii region still lacks the necessary infrastructure like electricity, telecommunications, and good roads,” he said. “This is inhibiting the full exploitation of the available natural resources. The hilly nature of the area leads to serious soil erosion and makes communication difficult. This is what we are determined to change.” 

Mr Odinga said should ODM win, it would improve the region’s infrastructure to speed up development by building more roads and installing power and telecommunication lines. 

Agriculture, which is the mainstay of the region, would also be revamped to ensure that farmers reap handsomely. 

Among the proposals made for this sector providing credit to farmers.

Mr Odinga said the prices of pesticides and fertilisers would also be reduced considerably. 

“Helping to support cash crops and horticultural produce will also be our goal,” he said. 

Tea production would also be modernised with the introduction of high yielding varieties and tea processing plants be upgraded. 

Mr Odinga said an ODM government would sign trade pacts with major trading partners like Pakistan to ensure that Kenya tightens her grip in the lucrative global tea market. 

The party also pledged to improve the region’s health facilities and equip them with adequate drugs. 

The party will also put in place a food policy to be adopted by Parliament in the first 100 days of an ODM government.

This will ensure that no one dies of starvation or poor nutrition. 

Mr Odinga also promised to create more employment avenues for area residents to supplement agriculture. 

“We need to diversify the economy to include industrial and trade expansion to stem Kisiis from migrating to neighbouring districts and far-flung countries,” he said. “Soapstone which found in the area of Tabaka provides a reasonable resource for the carving industry.”