Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia has expressed his commitment to boost the county’s agricultural sector, particularly coffee farming, as he continues to distribute seedlings and support local farmers in the region.
He spoke at Kaguru Agriculture Training Centre in South Imenti today ,where he donated 13,000 coffee seedlings, 22,222 macadamia, and 66 000 Hass avocado seedlings to farmers.
The governor also issued 2,800 kilograms of sunflower seeds and announced that 180,000 more coffee seedlings are ready for distribution across the county.
He emphasized that the county’s agricultural transformation program is designed to boost food security, enhance farmers’ income and restore Meru’s legacy as a leading coffee producer in Kenya.
“We are not only planting crops we are planting prosperity Coffee is a lucrative business. Those who have embraced it in other countries such as Ethiopia, are now reaping great rewards. Meru will not be left behind.”said the governor.
Mutuma said that his administration is working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to secure more coffee seedlings and other crop varieties for both large- and small-scale farmers.
He urged residents to take advantage of the opportunity to diversify their farming activities by planting coffee, avocado, macadamia,sunflower and canola.
According to the governor, the introduction of canola seedlings will play a key role in supporting oil production and animal feed manufacturing amid enhancing value addition within the agricultural sector.
“We want Meru farmers to benefit not just from planting but from processing and selling farm produce We are determined to make agriculture the backbone of our county’s economy” he said.
Boosting Dairy and Food Security
The county chief also highlighted his administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen dairy farming and food production across Meru.
He noted that the county government has prioritized programs aimed at improving livestock breeds, supporting farmers with animal feeds and increasing milk production for both domestic use and the market.
“Our goal is to ensure every household in Meru is food secure through dairy farming, we will also improve the livelihoods of thousands of families, especially in rural areas.”he added.
He further said that his government is committed to raising the living standards of Meru residents through honest and transparent leadership.
“I will never lie to our people this government is built on a religious and moral foundation. We will continue to serve our people faithfully and truthfully,” he said.
Focus on Urban Growth and Development
Beyond agriculture, Governor Mutuma revealed that his administration is also laying the groundwork for urban development, with plans to elevate Meru town to city status and Nkubu to a municipality.
These developments, he said, will attract more investment, create employment, and improve infrastructure within the county.
“We are positioning Meru for growth. Making Meru a city will open doors for investors and transform the local economy,” Mutuma stated.
Responding to Critics
Addressing recent political attacks, Governor Mutuma dismissed his critics who have labeled him “interim,” saying they do not understand the nature of his leadership.
“Those calling me interim do not know what they are saying I am fully focused on service delivery and development. I will not be distracted by name-calling or political sideshows.”he noted
Mutuma urged his opponents to give his administration peace and time to deliver on its promises, emphasizing that his leadership is anchored on tangible results rather than political noise.
“I am not shaken by insults what matters to me is the progress and welfare of Meru people. My mission is clear to serve and transform this county.”he added.
A Vision for a Prosperous Meru
The governor concluded his speech by reaffirming his long-term vision of making Meru a model county in agriculture, food production and sustainable development.
“Meru has the potential to lead the country in agriculture and innovation together, we can build a county where every farmer benefits, every youth has an opportunity, and every family enjoys a better life.” said the county boss .
