The availability of high-quality and locally adapted seeds is critical to achieving sustainable and enhanced food security.
These seeds not only ensure the success of agricultural projects but also pave the way for improved household income by enabling the sale of surplus produce in local markets.
To plug this gap, PanAfricare Kenya, with funding from the Bayer Fund and in collaboration with the County Government of Turkana, has been driving forward the IMPACT Programme within the Katilu and Turkwel wards.
The IMPACT Programme has ushered in agricultural development in these regions, propelling the distribution of over 1.5 metric tonnes of assorted seeds to directly benefit 880 farmers.
Through this initiative, the farm beneficiaries have been provided with an array of seeds that cater to the unique local climate.
Ekalali Erupe, a resident of Kaekunyuk in Katilu Ward, Turkana South, is one such beneficiary and says the programme has been a game-changer for the community.
Previously, access to vegetables was a distant dream, and their availability was dependent on limited resources.
Erupe, now a passionate advocate, encourages fellow women to embrace farming, stressing its role in sustaining households and ensuring food security, particularly for families with children under the age of five.
Panafricare communication officer Peter Outa says the programme provides a variety of seeds that have flourished on the supported farms. Cowpeas, sorghum, watermelon, tomatoes, kale, spinach, bio-fortified beans, and butternuts are among the array of crops doing well in enriching the dietary choices and nutritional content of households.
Additionally, the initiative has extended its reach to 200 lead mothers, providing them with conical gardens that guarantee a steady supply of homegrown vegetables.
“In regions faced with recurring droughts, initiatives like the IMPACT Programme have made efforts to improve food security and resilience, acting as a defense against the challenges posed by persistent dry spells,” says Outa.
The distribution of these seeds represents just one aspect of the IMPACT Programme’s comprehensive strategy designed to strengthen access to highly nutritious vegetables and enhance overall food security.
The IMPACT Programme also equips farmers with knowledge through training in good agricultural practices, village savings and loan associations (VSLA), pre- and post-harvest handling techniques, and the establishment of water users’ associations. This holistic approach empowers farmers with the skills and tools needed for success in the dynamic realm of agriculture.
“Moving forward, the IMPACT Programme stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards self-reliance, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices,” says Outa.
By Peter Gitonga
