CITY HALL, Kisumu– The County Government of Kisumu and Equity Bank have forged a strategic partnership to digitise farm input subsidies through an innovative E-Voucher program.
The initiative seeks to streamline access to certified agricultural inputs for smallholder farmers while promoting efficiency, transparency, and economic growth across the region.
Under the program, farmers will co-pay a portion of input costs, triggering an automatic top-up from the county government to cover the remaining balance.
The full subsidy value will then be deposited into a secure E-Voucher account, redeemable exclusively at approved agro-dealer outlets within local shopping centres.
This digital approach eliminates the need for farmers to travel long distances to collect subsidies, reducing costs and logistical challenges.
Agricultural Transformation
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Kisumu Governor, Prof Anyang Nyong’o, hailed the partnership with Equity Bank as a milestone in the area’s agricultural development agenda.
“By digitising subsidies, we ensure only eligible farmers benefit while curbing fraud and inefficiencies. Additionally, empowering local agro-dealers will stimulate rural economies and create jobs,” he said at City Hall earlier today.
The Governor emphasised that the program aligns with the county’s broader strategy to enhance food security and farmer incomes through smart and advanced technologies.
Driving Financial Inclusion
Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director Moses Nyabanda reiterated the bank’s commitment to financial empowerment.
“Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy, and this initiative ensures farmers access quality inputs conveniently. For many, this will be their first bank account, opening doors to credit and other financial services,” Nyabanda said.
The initiative also supports the financial institution’s ‘Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan,’ which focuses on agriculture as a key vehicle for economic sustainability.
The savings and lending bank further aims to allocate 30 percent of its portfolio to food and agribusiness, reinforcing its task in enhancing agri-commercialisation.
The E-Voucher program marks a vital step toward Kisumu’s agricultural sector modernisation, setting a precedent for other counties to follow suit.
