Kisii Governor James Ongwae yesterday urged farmers to adopt crop husbandry not only to boost production but also their earnings.
He said with the change in weather patterns, farmers should keep abreast and stop planting one crop every season. The county government has prioritised agriculture because it plays a bigger role in improving its economy and ensuring residents increase their incomes.
"I urge our farmers to embrace crop husbandry because this will not only boost food production but also their earnings," Ongwae said.
"They have no choice but to embrace the same due to change in weather patterns. Food security is crucial."
The county chief spoke to the Star on the phone. He said his administration will be sponsoring training for farmers so they know the importance of using new technology.
"Low use of technology, including use of new seed varieties, farm machinery and information and communication technology, is to blame for the poor production not only in Kisii but the nation at large," Ongwae said.
Most farmers still rely on centuries-old traditional methods that lead to minimal returns on investment. Ongwae said such practices must be discarded.
He said there have been rising cases of invasion of crop and livestock farms by new pests and diseases, hence the need to adopt new measures to tackle such problems.
“The weather has become unpredictable and the soil has degenerated due to over-cultivation. Invasion of crop by new pets is a big challenge,” the county chief said.
“The factors make food production more difficult, hurting the prospects of ending perennial hunger.”
Without harnessing agricultural technology, farmers cannot produce more food. For decades, the governor noted the agriculture sector has been one of the biggest contributors to the country’s economy, especially when it comes to jobs creation directly or indirectly.
He said farm mechanisation, superior quality seeds, and improved pest and disease control strategies are essentials that farmers must have to earn more from their activities.
(Edited by F'Orieny)
