Govt develops plan to reduce edible oil import dependency
The government has through the ministries of Agriculture and Trade targeted specific value chains in a bid to stimulate production, value addition, and marketing of agricultural products so as to lower the cost of importation that stands at over Sh100 billion per year.
Speaking during the official opening of the 2023 Central Kenya ASK Show in Nyeri, Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen said the country is heavily dependent on edible oil imports, and that there is a need for a robust and independent domestic production system.
“To address the generic issues affecting the agricultural sector, the government has identified specific value chains that have the greatest potential to turn around our economy, we have edible oils, rice, cotton, coffee, beef, leather and dairy value chains for accelerated promotion and development of their production, value addition and marketing to reduce the cost of importation of edible oils,” he said.
Murkomen added that the government aims to create a conducive environment for the growth and development of local industries while reducing reliance on imports.
“The production of edible oils, in particular, has emerged as a critical focus area. By boosting the local production of edible oils, not only can the country significantly reduce its import bill, but it can also create employment opportunities and empower local farmers,” he said.
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