Training
Over 1,000 farmers in Makueni County, Friday, were trained in innovative farming practices aimed at increasing farm production in an effort to improve food security in the region. The training which was conducted in Makueni Town, brought together farmers from all over the County, including poultry, dairy, fish livestock and crop farming, with an aim of improving area residents’ livelihoods.
The event which was organized by the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries and Remington Africa, at the Makueni Police Grounds, brought together Agricultural Experts, Exhibitors and Agriculture Officers from the County. “We as the County Government are committed to empowering our farmers with knowledge and skills that will enable them to improve their livelihoods,” said Makueni Deputy Governor (DG) Lucy Mulili who officiated the function.
On fish farming, Mulili urged farmers to embrace fish farming saying it is an economic driver in the county that will help them to increase their base of income hence fight the rampant poverty affecting many residents in the region. “Fish farming has become a potential economic driver in the County, this will help farmers to diversify and increase their earnings,” she said.
On the anticipated short rains, the DG urged farmers to plant early maturing crops like green grams, sorghum and millet since the area will receive minimal rains as per the metrological prediction during the short rains expected in November to December. “I urge farmers to consider planting early maturing crops like green gram, sorghum and millet, so that they will be able to harvest something during this short rainy season,” Mulili emphasized.
During the event over 30 exhibitors, show cased their crops, fish and livestock. Solar exhibitors demonstrated how solar energy can be used in reducing the cost of energy and provide reliable power for pumping water from boreholes and water pans.