Uasin Gishu Governor Dr Jonathan Bii Chelilim used the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations in Eldoret to highlight the importance of protecting Kenya’s fertile agricultural land, supporting farmers and balancing housing development with the country’s food security needs. His remarks came as Eldoret hosted the national celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium on Tuesday, October 20, in an event jointly hosted by Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.

The governor’s speech placed agriculture and land preservation among the important issues facing Kenya as the country continues to pursue development projects, expand urban settlements and improve access to affordable housing.

Bii also appreciated the national government's support for farmers through subsidised fertiliser, recognising the importance of affordable farm inputs in maintaining agricultural production. His message highlighted the need to ensure that Kenya's development ambitions go hand in hand with protecting the resources that sustain livelihoods and feed the population. One of the key messages reported from Governor Jonathan Bii's speech was his appeal to Kenyans to protect fertile farmland from excessive subdivision for residential development.

The governor observed that as demand for housing increases, communities must carefully consider how agricultural land is used. While housing remains an important national priority, he emphasised that productive land must be preserved to support farming and food production.

Uasin Gishu is widely recognised for its agricultural potential, with farming contributing to the livelihoods of many households across the county. The wider North Rift region is particularly important to Kenya's food production, making the management of fertile land a major economic and social concern.Bii thanks President Ruto for subsidised fertiliser support

Another major issue highlighted by Governor Bii was the national government's support for farmers through the subsidised fertiliser programme.

The governor expressed appreciation to President William Ruto for supporting agricultural production by helping farmers access fertiliser at subsidised prices. The intervention is intended to reduce the cost of essential farm inputs and help farmers maintain or improve production.

Fertiliser is an important input for many farmers because it supports crop growth and can improve yields when used appropriately. However, the cost of agricultural inputs has remained a concern for farmers who must also pay for seeds, labour, transport and other production expenses.While national policies may help reduce the cost of inputs, farmers also require effective extension services, reliable markets and fair prices for their produce. Agricultural support must therefore extend beyond fertiliser distribution to address the wider challenges that affect production and profitability.

The governor's remarks also reinforced the connection between supporting farmers and protecting the country's food security. Kenya's ability to produce enough food depends on both the availability of agricultural inputs and the preservation of productive farmland.

His message was particularly significant during Mashujaa Day, when the country reflects on the contributions of people who have helped build the nation. Farmers are among those whose daily work supports millions of Kenyans, even though their contributions may not always receive the same public attention as those of prominent political and sporting figures.Why farmland protection matters to Kenya's economy

Agriculture remains an important pillar of Kenya's economy, supporting livelihoods, employment, food supplies and businesses across the country.

In Uasin Gishu, farming is closely connected to the activities of traders, transport operators, agricultural suppliers, millers and other businesses. A productive agricultural sector can stimulate economic activity well beyond the farm itself.

When farmers produce more, they can supply markets, earn income and support their families. Increased production can also create opportunities for businesses that process, transport and sell agricultural products.Eldoret provided a significant setting for Bii's message because Uasin Gishu is closely associated with agricultural production and the wider economic activities of the North Rift.

The county's agricultural potential has contributed to its identity as an important centre for farming, trade and investment. Its towns and rural communities are connected through the production and movement of agricultural commodities.

Protecting productive farmland is therefore not simply an environmental issue. It is also an economic concern for households whose incomes depend on agriculture and for businesses that rely on a consistent supply of farm produce.

As Eldoret continues to grow, county authorities face the challenge of accommodating new housing, businesses and public infrastructure while maintaining the county's agricultural strengths.Mashujaa Day provides an opportunity to recognise farmers

Mashujaa Day is observed annually on October 20 to honour Kenyans who have contributed to the country's freedom, development and wellbeing.

The national celebration recognises heroes and heroines across different fields, including public service, education, sports, agriculture, entrepreneurship and community service.

During the 2026 celebrations, Eldoret became the centre of national attention as leaders and members of the public gathered at Kipchoge Keino Stadium. Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet jointly hosted the event. Balancing affordable housing with food security

One of the broader implications of Bii's speech was the need to balance affordable housing with food security.

Kenya requires more housing as its population grows and urban areas expand. Affordable housing initiatives can help families access decent homes and improve living conditions.

At the same time, the country needs sufficient agricultural production to feed its population and support economic activity.What the governor's message means for residents

For residents of Uasin Gishu, the governor's message has implications for farmers, landowners, people seeking homes and businesses connected to agriculture.

Farmers may view the emphasis on land protection as an important reminder of the need to preserve productive agricultural holdings.

Those seeking affordable homes, meanwhile, need development policies that provide suitable residential opportunities without placing unnecessary pressure on the country's most productive farmland.