President Mwai Kibaki has underscored the important role played by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in transforming the lives of millions of people in the country.

The President singled out the Coastal Rural Support programmes (CRSP) programme, many of the projects under the AKDN for turning thousands of acres of initially unproductive land into agriculturally productive area.

Speaking at State House Nairobi when he held talks with His Highness the Aga Khan Monday, President Kibaki noted that the project had benefited thousands of farmers in several districts with harsh climate in the Coast Province.

Noting that the project has been instrumental in the adoption of modern farming techniques in the area, President Kibaki said there was need for the farmers to process their produce through value addition so as to reap maximum benefits.

In the same vein, the President pointed out that through the assistance of CRPS several dams have been built in the semi arid districts of Coast Province.

Said President Kibaki, "This has provided clean water to area residents who used to walk long distances in search of the precious commodity."

The President further lauded the AKDN for its involvement in the provision of health services noting that through the network was operating hospitals in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu.

He also commended the network for it's involvement in education through institutions at various levels.

His Highness the Aga Khan said Kenya had achieved tremendous development strides due to an enabling environment existing in country.