Makueni County has commenced construction of a new Kenya School of Agriculture (KSA) campus valued at Sh90 million, aiming to become a key centre for agricultural training and innovation in the Lower Eastern region.

The groundbreaking ceremony at Kwakathoka was led by Agriculture Principal Secretary Kiprono Rono alongside Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo. This facility will be the 10th branch of KSA and is scheduled to launch its first phase by November 2026.

Empowering Farmers and Youth

The campus is designed to equip farmers, young people, and agripreneurs with practical skills and modern farming techniques to increase productivity and adapt to evolving agricultural markets.

Governor Mutula highlighted the campus as a strategic investment for the county’s youth and farming community, emphasizing its role in agricultural innovation, research, and technology transfer. He also noted the campus will support climate resilience and bolster the local economy through job creation and business growth.

Collaboration and Opportunities

Principal Secretary Rono credited the project to persistent lobbying by the county government in partnership with the State Department for Agriculture. He praised Governor Mutula’s proactive leadership and underscored the importance of agriculture in Kenya’s economic transformation.

Rono encouraged young people to view agriculture as a viable business opportunity rather than just farming. Additionally, students at the new campus will access internship programs with the UK government, offering international exposure to advanced agricultural practices.

Future Impact

  • The campus will provide comprehensive agricultural training tailored to the needs of the Lower Eastern region.
  • It aims to enhance skills that promote value addition, increase productivity, and generate employment.
  • The project supports the government's broader agenda to expand agricultural education and strengthen technical capacity among youth.

The event was also attended by Agriculture CEC Damaris Kavoi and other national and county officials, marking a significant milestone in Makueni’s agricultural development.