MPs outline measures to cut farm costs and boost blue economy

Members of Parliament have proposed initiatives to decrease the expenses of farming and expand economic prospects within Kenya's blue economy. During the Parliamentary Service Commission exhibition at the Mombasa International Show on September 3, 2026, National Assembly Agriculture and Livestock Committee Vice-Chairperson Brighton Yegon stated that Parliament is undertaking reforms to cut production costs, enhance access to farm inputs, and shield farmers from market exploitation.

Yegon emphasized that reducing production costs is crucial for improving farmers' incomes and strengthening the agricultural sector. Additionally, he advocated for policies to enhance farmers' market access and ensure better returns from their harvests.

PSC Commissioner and Likoni MP Mishi Mboko pointed out that the Coast region possesses substantial potential in fisheries, maritime resources, and value addition. She stressed that the blue economy must result in livelihoods for the local population, implying that coastal fishermen and communities require advanced technology, value-addition facilities, and improved market access to directly benefit from ocean wealth.

Mboko emphasized the need for stronger policy and legislative support to enable coastal communities to leverage marine resources. She proposed that investing in technology, processing facilities, and markets could generate jobs and raise incomes along the Coast. The blue economy encompasses economic activities connected to oceans, seas, and other water resources, including fisheries, maritime transport, and tourism.

Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian underscored the necessity for Parliament to bolster interventions aimed at pastoralist communities, especially during drought periods. She argued that policies should focus on early interventions, livestock off-take programs, improved markets, and value addition to bolster pastoralism's resilience and commercial viability.

Lemaletian emphasized that proactive measures could assist communities in safeguarding livestock and minimizing losses during droughts. She also advocated for better livestock markets and value addition to enable pastoralists to derive greater profits from their animals and associated products.

Furthermore, Julius Kiprotich Rutto mentioned that Parliament's communication channels are assisting citizens in comprehending its legislative and oversight activities. The PSC exhibition at the Mombasa International Show offered an opportunity for the general public to interact with Parliament and gain insights into its role in shaping policies impacting various sectors of the economy.