ASK urges govt to include agriculture in transformative agenda

Politics and policy 

A man waters crops at the ASK Nakuru showground. The ASK has appealed to government to include agriculture in its youth transformative agenda. PHOTO | FILE | NATION MEDIA GROUP 

By EVELYN SITUMA, esituma@ke.nationmedia.com

In Summary

• Given that more youth are taking interest in agriculture, ASK feels that its inclusion in NYS agendas will help foster agriculture as a worthy income generating option for youth.

The Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) has appealed to the government to include agriculture in its youth transformative agenda, even as the society explores diversity in its activities.

Speaking during the official opening of the Nairobi International Trade Fair, ASK chairman Alice Kalya called on the ministry of devolution and planning to make agriculture part of the National Youth Service (NYS) agenda.

“We propose that the modern national youth service includes agriculture in their reviewed programmes, the youth in agriculture agenda,” said Ms Kalya.

The government recently launched the new look NYS to strategically take part in nation building. Construction, vector control, enterprise, hospitality and public duty are some of the agendas the state corporation will be keen on.

READ: NYS eyes mega projects with new construction arm

Given that more youth are taking interest in agriculture, ASK feels that its inclusion in NYS agendas will help foster agriculture as a worthy income generating option for youth.

“The society recognises that increased participation by youth in agriculture is necessary and vital in ensuring food security,” she added.

According to Ms Kalya, shining the spotlight on the youth will offer them opportunities to appreciate agribusiness as a worthy option beside formal employment.

Since coming to office last year, the Jubilee government has made an effort to improve the lives of the country's youth. The Sh6 billion Uwezo Fund and reorganisation of the NYS are two notable transformations.

READ: Devolution ministry spends Sh5bn to outfit the NYS

ASK is currently seeking to diversify its activities as it opens up to a more viable business model. With the society’s master and strategic plan unveiled Wednesday by President Uhuru Kenyatta, Ms Kalya says the two documents will be instrumental in strengthening the society’s financial base and sustainability.