The Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has urged Murang’a farmers to grow only certified seeds in order to increase food production.
Robert Musyoki, KALRO Director, said the organisation had strategically scheduled its agricultural exhibition in mid-March to align with the expected onset of rains.
Musyoki noted that educating farmers on the need to grow certified seed varieties and proper planting techniques would boost food security.
“Kenya faces a food deficit, and the best way to address this challenge is by ensuring farmers plant the right seeds while using the correct methods. Our exhibition will equip farmers with the knowledge needed to enhance productivity and strengthen the country’s food security,” he remarked.
Samuel Kiiru, KALRO research officer, emphasised the importance of using certified seeds while urging the farmers to purchase only those approved by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS).
Kiiru said certified seeds were more resistant to diseases and pests, ensuring higher yields and better crop quality.
“Certified seeds guarantee improved productivity and resilience, which directly benefits farmers and enhances food security in the country,” Kiiru said.
Farmers who use certified seeds say the benefits are evident, with Joseph Kinuthia, a maize and bean farmer, divulging that his yields have significantly improved since switching to KALRO-certified seeds.
“Before, when we used uncertified seeds, our harvests were poor. But since switching to certified varieties, our productivity has increased, and we are now getting better returns from our farms,” Kinuthia said.
Anne Kimani, KALRO researcher, described soybean farming as an untapped agribusiness opportunity in the country, noting that low local production had led to increased imports and urged farmers to take advantage of the crop’s economic potential.
“Soybeans are highly beneficial, providing proteins, oil, and animal feed. Increased local production will not only reduce our reliance on imports but also create business opportunities, particularly for women and youth, through processing industries for beverages, animal feed, and cooking oil,” said Kimani.
Meanwhile, the upcoming farmers’ expo, scheduled for March 13 and 14, will introduce farmers and entrepreneurs to new agricultural technologies aimed at improving productivity.
According to Chairperson of the Chambers of Commerce, Dr. Naomi Kagone, the farmers EXPO will expose farmers to innovative solutions that can help them to detect and manage crop diseases early, including those caused by pests such as the fall armyworm.
IRRI researcher Kennedy Mangwana said that KALRO, in partnership with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), has introduced drought-resistant rice varieties to expand cultivation into new regions.
He explained that the newly developed rice varieties can thrive in highland areas without irrigation, allowing more farmers to venture into rice farming.
“These rice varieties, such as Derik and Paddy, have undergone extensive research and can withstand harsh conditions while maintaining high yields, even in dry seasons.
“By adopting them, farmers in previously unsuitable regions can grow rice, boosting local production and strengthening food security,” Mwangwana further noted.
By Bernard Munyao
