Farmers in Homa Bay County have been urged to practice modern farming methods to boost production.
Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency Chairman Odoyo Owidi told farmers to use certified seeds and fertilizers this planting season to promote food security.
He noted that Homa Bay County has a huge potential for production of crops for subsistence and marketing.
He however noted that if the farmers fail to use the certified seeds and fertilizers, the county may get poor harvests.
He spoke today during a sensitization meeting that brought together farmers and the business community in Rangwe Sub- County.
Also present was the board member of Kenya Medical Supplies Agency Hesborn Omollo.
Omollo echoed Odoyo’s sentiments saying embracing sound agricultural practices will enable the farmers to acquire high crop yields.
“Proper use of certified seeds and fertilizers will enable our farmers to get good harvests. Let us consider modern farming techniques to enable us to achieve good harvests,” Omollo said.
He explained that the government has a robust programme of providing fertilizers to farmers at subsidised costs.
Omollo told the farmers to register for the fertilizers to enable them to benefit.
“Let us register for the subsidized fertilizers which the government offers. This will enable us to get high crop yields,” he added.
The official said farming is a key economic activity that can transform the livelihood of residents.
He stressed that farming is a key source of employment which should not be underrated. Omollo told youth not to fear farming.
“Let our young not fear farming. Farming is an economic activity which has made many people millionaires in our country today. Let us do it with passion,” Omollo said.
He said proper farming will reduce the cost of living in the country. “Towards the 2022 General election, the price of 2 kg of maize flour was Sh250 but it has reduced to below Sh150 because of farming. Farming has helped in reducing the cost of living,” Omollo said.
The leaders also urged residents to form cooperative societies to bargain for good prices for their produce.
By Davis Langat
