Kerio Valley farmers have fueled a protest over a mired mango processing project worth Sh100m launched by Kerio Valley Development Authority in 2018 but currently isolated.
The factory in Marakwet East constituency was initiated for processing but this seems a pipe dream that has never been implemented.
Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot farmers who are the primary beneficiaries of the project said that although the dam was initiated purposely to cushion them against perennial rains its abandonment has left them counting losses this year as thousands of tons of mangoes rot in farms while farmers wait for the factory to process their fruits
”The agency is awaiting certification from the Kenya Bureau Standards (Kebs) before starting commercial processing,” Kerio Valley Development Authority MD Mr.Naporos stated.
He also claimed they have delayed the processing due to compliance issues as they engage in crafting mangoes in a bid to enhance quality produce.
The farmers have been doing fruit sales at Sh 300 per bag for they rely on exploitative business men from Nairobi and other parts of the country.