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Cherang'any Parliamentary Hopeful Launches Avocado Farming Initiative to Combat Poverty

Cherang'any parliamentary aspirant John Njuguna has launched an avocado farming initiative targeting smallholder farmers—particularly women—in a bid to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods across the constituency.

Mr. Njuguna, accompanied by area Senator Allan Chesang, unveiled the project at Nyakinyua Primary School, where 1,000 Golden Hass avocado seedlings were distributed to women farmers.

Njuguna emphasized that the initiative directly addresses the high poverty levels in Cherang’any and forms part of his broader vision to economically empower residents through sustainable agriculture.

"The burden of poverty here is real, and women bear the brunt of it. We need solutions, not just promises. This avocado project is a step toward long-term empowerment," he said.

The project, which is also being rolled out in other wards, includes training beneficiaries on proper propagation and crop care.

"The market for avocado is highly lucrative. Beneficiaries will not only receive guidance on best crop management practices but will also be linked to reliable markets," Njuguna added.

Senator Chesang praised the initiative, stressing that the overreliance on maize farming no longer yields sufficient returns for local farmers and highlighting the urgent need for agricultural diversification.

"Maize production is no longer sustainable. It’s time we diversify and support projects like this, while also exploring other ventures such as coffee farming," said Chesang.
He further urged the county government to allocate resources to such initiatives as a way to cushion residents from the declining profitability of traditional crops.

"I call on the county government to prioritize programs that promote economic diversification and empower residents to become self-reliant," he said.

The Golden Hass Avocado Project is being implemented in phases across Cherang’any, with future plans to incorporate other value-added crops and agribusiness opportunities.

Local residents welcomed the initiative as a timely and practical solution to enhance food security and boost household incomes.

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