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COUNTY HOSTS WORKSHOP ON DIGITAL SOIL SAMPLING TECHNIQUES TO ENHANCE AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES

The County Government of Uasin Gishu, led by Governor Dr. Bii, is committed to empowering farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity through modern technology.

In this spirit, the Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP) and the Kenya Agricultural & Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), conducted a workshop focused on digital soil sampling techniques on Monday at St. John’s Pastoral Center in Racecourse ward, Kesses Sub-County.

The exercise brought together Sub-County Agricultural Officers (SCAOs), Ward Agricultural Officers (WAOs), and Agripreneurs from all 30 wards across the county. The primary objective of the workshop was to delve into the practical applications of innovative soil sampling techniques, which are essential for enhancing agricultural practices and productivity.

During the event, participants were introduced to advanced tools such as Kobocollect and Maps.me. These technologies are designed to streamline the process of soil data collection and mapping, ensuring that agricultural officers can gather accurate information efficiently.

The use of these digital tools signifies a crucial step toward modernizing agriculture in the region, moving away from traditional methods to techniques that leverage technology for better outcomes.

The Chief Officer for Agriculture, Mr. Elphas Kesio, highlighted the workshop’s importance, saying that Understanding soil health is paramount; it directly influences the effectiveness of fertilizer use, which in turn affects crop yields.

Kesio said that the workshop marks just one of the many steps the County Government is taking to ensure that agriculture remains a cornerstone of economic growth and stability in Uasin Gishu, aligning with Governor Dr. Bii’s vision for a prosperous and self-sufficient farming community.

According to NAVCDP Coordinator Mr Cosmas Lang’at, equipping agricultural officers with the skills and knowledge needed to evaluate soil conditions will assist in empowering them to advise farmers effectively on the best practices for fertilization and land management.

“The health of our soil is the foundation upon which our agricultural success rests. By implementing these digital techniques, we can help our farmers make better-informed decisions about their land, ultimately leading to increased productivity and sustainable practices,” said Mr. Lang’at during his address.