The County Government of Uasin Gishu, through the Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness, Livestock, and Fisheries, has launched high-quality seedlings to promote crop diversification and climate-smart agriculture for sustainable development.
Speaking during the launch in Tiret area, Tapsagoi ward in Turbo sub-county, Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii noted that they are distributing 383,000 coffee seedlings, 17,500 avocado seedlings, and 50,000 pyrethrum splits as part of the comprehensive initiative to enhance crop diversification.
“This significant exercise aims to increase food security, household incomes, improve food nutrition, and support value-added efforts within our agricultural community,” said Bii.
Bii stated that in Turbo Sub County, a good number of farmers have already embarked on cultivating the highly valued crops.
“Currently, the acreage dedicated to these crops stands at 332 acres, representing 23 per cent of the total arable land in Turbo,” noted Bii.
The governor added that the expected production from Turbo is projected to yield 2,656,000 kilogrammes of cherries or 379,428 kilogrammes of parchment coffee, with an estimated market value of Sh212.4 million.
He further added that the current demand in Turbo Sub County for these seedlings is 67,050 for coffee seedlings and 6,945 for avocado seedlings.
“The distribution will further bolster these efforts, enabling farmers to either initiate or expand their cultivation areas,” he said.
He urged all farmers to seize this opportunity presented by the administration of the county and focus on crop diversification.
“As an administration, we are committed to providing continuous support to our farmers to help them realise their full potential and secure prosperous futures,” noted the county boss.
“It is time for our hardworking farmers to reap the rewards of their dedication and labour, “said Bii.
By Judy Too
