THE Kitui government will use the media to educate farmers on how to manage and store produce.
Agriculture executive Charles Kang’e yesterday said Kitui has had aflatoxin-related deaths whenever there is bumper harvest.
He spoke to the media in his office.
Kang’e said studies indicate poor post-harvest management results in loss of over 30 per cent of the harvest.
“We will use the media, especially FM radio stations, to educate the residents on the best post-harvest management practices. Field officers will also be out at barazas spreading the same message,” he said.
Aflatoxins are poisonous chemicals produced by certain molds growing in soil, decaying vegetation, hay, and grains.
Kang’e said the precautionary measure has been taken since farmers expect a good harvest following the recent heavy rains.
“I don’t think we have any area in Kitui where crop yield will not be good,” he said.
He said a team of food security experts from the county, the national government, NGOs and the World Food Programme will carry out a two-week crop assessment early next month.
“Only after I get the assessment report from the team, will I be able to give the performance of every specific crop. We have a good crop yield that has not been experienced in Kitui for years,” Kang’e said.
He said if the expected huge harvest is well managed, residents will not lack food for a full year.
“Our county will remain food-secure until December,” Kang’e said.
