ASK to relocate Migori showground from town centre to accommodate more exhibitors

Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) has announced that it was permanently relocating the Migori showground from the town centre to Lichota, five kilometres from the town.

Speaking in Migori town, Migori ASK branch Chairman Omune Ong'ono said the move was meant to accommodate more exhibitors.

"We are expanding and we need more land for our exhibitors. We are glad that the new venue will accommodate all those wishing to exhibit their products during the event," he said.

At the same time, Omune regretted that the 52 acres allocated to them was later reduced by 17 acres.

He said some part of their land had been excised by unknown people and they had been pushed closer to a cemetery and a dump site.

"We have hired a physical planner and landscaping expert to help to offer spaces to over 150 exhibitors we are expecting," he said.

The new site sits on a 10,006-acre land which will also host new Migori county government's headquarters, an airstrip and Lake Basin Development Authority.

According to Omune, 120 exhibitors have confirmed participation in the event which will take place from 9-11 October this year.

County Executive for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Moses Chamwada said they working to resolve the land issue.

"We will have to first see the documents showing how the piece of land was allocated as we are keen to ensure that the show is a success," he said.

Chamwada further added that the ASK was facing challenges of accessibility as it was far from town.

"Last year, we had 75 exhibitors and attendance was high as the venue was within town. But we will now need to market aggressively since it is now located five kilometres from town marketing," he said.

He said the county will build a bridge over River Migori to connect Lichota and Kadika estates to shorten the route.