The County Government of Uasin Gishu held a consultative meeting with delegates from Warehouse Receipt System Council and the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) to discuss how to implement the Warehouse Receipt System (WRS).
The system seeks to reduce post-harvest losses, address low and delayed payments for farmer’s produce and provide access to the adequate and proper storage process. The System also allows farmers to access loans from financial institutions as the receipt proves ownership of produce. Initially, farmers have had to struggle and grapple with fluctuating prices of commodities, but with the introduction of the warehouse receipt system, storage of produce is guaranteed until and when prices are favourable.
“We shall engage the farmers and certify our stores which can help them plan and store their produce until the market dynamics become favourable,” said the County Executive for Agriculture Samuel Yego. He added that they are ready to work with the Warehouse Receipts System Council to ensure that farmers are protected and that the system is fully implemented.
County Executive Committee Member in charge of Cooperatives and Enterprise Development Esther Mutai said: “We want to see cooperatives develop their warehouses and store their products since they are protected by the County and the council.”
The Chief Officer for Agriculture, Julius Rotich, Director for County Enterprise Development Fund, Isaack Lagat and NCPM General Manager Kanyaa Jones, Warehouse Receipt Council’s Lucy Komen who is in-charge of Development, were also present during the meeting.
