Sunflower-002
In a bid to promote agricultural diversification and boost the economy, Nakuru County is distributing sunflower seeds to farmers across the county. The initiative, launched under the Sunflower Promotion Program, aims to encourage farmers to take up sunflower farming as a rotational crop ahead of the short rain season.
The County Executive Member for Agriculture (CEMA) Leonard Bor said the distribution of sunflower seeds is being carried out through the Ward Agriculture offices, where farmers are being urged to embrace sunflower cultivation. He noted that the crop is known for its relatively short maturity period of three months, making it an attractive option for farmers seeking to maximize their land use. He was speaking during a tour of Rongai Sub-County.
To ensure successful sunflower farming, the County Agriculture Department is providing technical support to farmers throughout the entire cultivation cycle, from planting to harvesting. ”Agricultural officers are offering expert guidance on seed selection, land preparation, planting techniques, pest and disease management, and harvesting methods,” says Bor.
Additionally, he said the distribution of sunflower seeds in Nakuru County is a result of the county’s partnership with the Agriculture Food Authority (AFA). The AFA has provided a second batch of 30 tonnes of sunflower seeds, which will significantly contribute to expanding the acreage under sunflower cultivation to 15,000 acres.
Elderly farmers in Rongai who have received their sunflower seeds
He noted that the promotion of sunflower farming in Nakuru County aligns with the government’s efforts to diversify the country’s agricultural sector and reduce reliance on traditional crops. Sunflower is a valuable crop with various uses, including oil production, food consumption, and animal feed. By encouraging sunflower farming, Nakuru County is not only supporting the livelihoods of farmers but also contributing to the overall development of the agricultural sector and the economy as a whole.
Sunflower, Bor said, was a versatile crop with multiple uses, such as production of cooking oil, hence reducing the need for imports and saving foreign exchange for the country. Apart from that, he said sunflower meal, a byproduct of oil extraction, can be used as a valuable component of animal feed, hence supporting the livestock industry.
Also, the county executive noted that sunflower can serve as a rotational crop, helping farmers diversify their agricultural activities and reduce their risk exposure to pests, and diseases.
Moreover, he observed that the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of sunflowers can create jobs in rural areas, contributing to economic growth and poverty reduction. And, the crop can be a valuable asset to the country’s economy by providing food security, generating foreign exchange, supporting industrial development and creating more jobs for the youth.