County Executive Member for Agriculture Mr Sam Kottut and his counterpart for Lands Mr. Edward Sawe joined thousands of farmers converging at Philip Ngetich’s (Chepses) farm for a Farmers’ Field Day organized by Yara in partnership with Pannar Seed.
The event marked the unveiling of Pannar’s new hybrid maize variety, PAN 9M-91, specifically designed for medium-wet and highland environments.
Speaking during the exercise, Dr. Kottut, emphasized the necessity of soil testing as a foundational practice for successful farming.
“Understanding the nutrient composition of your soil is essential for making informed decisions about crop management and fertilization,” he stated.
Kottut urged farmers to adopt new crop varieties, highlighting that modern hybrids like PAN 9M-91 can significantly enhance productivity.
He stressed the importance of adhering to good agricultural practices, noting that even small adjustments in maize farming can lead to substantial improvements in yield.
“Every detail matters, from soil preparation to pest management,” he added.
Additionally, Kottut urged farmers to join cooperative societies, which can provide them with better access to resources, markets and shared knowledge. “Cooperatives can empower farmers to diversify into high-value crops, aligning with Governor Bii’s vision for a more resilient agricultural sector,” he said.
County Executive for Lands Mr. Sawe described land fragmentation as a major challenge for farmers. He called on the agricultural community to avoid dividing their land into smaller plots, as this can hinder efficient farming practices calling on farmers to Consolidate land for maximizing output and ensuring sustainable farming.
To address the issue of land fragmentation, Sawe encouraged farmers to take advantage of affordable housing initiatives, which he believes can provide a viable solution.
He informed attendees about the registration process for housing through the Boma Yangu platform, emphasizing that stable housing can lead to more focused agricultural efforts.
Agriculture Chief Officer Mr Elphas Kesio, Director of Agriculture Kenneth Kili and Coffee Officer Mr Nicholas Maritim attended the exercise.
