Khwisero: Khwisero Banana Factory has been revived to enhance value addition and reduce post-harvest losses incurred by farmers in the area. Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), presided over the project's launch Friday.
According to Kenya News Agency, Oparanya said the factory will mark a significant milestone in the region's economic development and transform the local agricultural landscape. 'We have committed Sh20 million towards the project that will transform local livelihoods and accelerate socio-economic development in the region,' he said. Speaking in Khwisero, the CS emphasized the government's focus on revitalizing cooperative movements and supporting MSMEs as drivers of economic growth in rural areas.
The CS was accompanied by area Member of Parliament Christopher Aseka and his counterparts Elsie Muhanda (Woman Representative), Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani), Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), Fred Ikana (Shinyalu), Titus Khamala (Lurambi), and Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Jackson Oloo. Aseka highlighted the potential of the factory's revival to create job opportunities, promote sustainable farming practices, and boost the local economy. 'The revival of the Khwisero Banana Factory is a game-changer for our people. This project will provide employment for many and enhance agribusiness opportunities for our local farmers,' he said.
He mentioned that the project aligns with his vision of empowering the community through economic sustainability. The MP assured that the banana processing plant is expected to provide a reliable market for farmers and promised transparent implementation of the project. Local farmers and residents have expressed optimism about the revival, noting that the factory will not only offer stable income opportunities but also encourage more investment in banana farming within Khwisero Sub-County. Stakeholders remain hopeful that the initiative will set the pace for more industrial and agricultural advancements in the county.