Nairobi:Tharaka-Nithi County Young people have been encouraged to embrace agriculture and utilize available land to create employment and enhance food security, amid concerns over the aging farmer population in the country. This message was delivered during the inaugural Kilimo Kraft Innovations Africa Agricultural Expo held at Kairuni Stadium in Maara Constituency.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Expo’s founding director, Chris Kimathi, emphasized the importance of attracting young people to farming to sustain food production. The event, which brought together farmers, agricultural institutions, input suppliers, and other stakeholders, aimed to change the perception that agriculture is a less rewarding career.
Kimathi, a civil engineer and beekeeper, shared his personal experiences of how agriculture had opened opportunities for him, including international travel. He highlighted the estimated average age of farmers being about 70 years and stressed the need for young people to pursue agriculture, moving away from the expectation of white-collar jobs.
He urged young individuals to identify and address challenges within their communities by acquiring relevant skills. Kimathi also encouraged farmers to utilize available land productively, dismissing concerns over lack of rainfall, and announced that the Expo would be held annually to facilitate interaction and skill acquisition among farmers.
County veterinary officer Denis Nyamu shared that the Tharaka-Nithi County Government is collaborating with farmers to improve livestock production through affordable artificial insemination services, tailored to different ecological zones. Nyamu advised farmers to prepare for the rainy season by producing and preserving adequate fodder.
Representing Chuka University, Pamela Apuko noted the institution’s efforts in providing practical agricultural experience to students and promoting organic farming to enhance food safety and public health. She called for government support for agricultural exhibitions to foster skills and knowledge sharing.
The Expo also showcased innovations, such as converting banana fiber into sanitary pads, which could create a market for banana waste and encourage increased production. Timothy Thuranira from Agribase Bio Science International highlighted the promotion of quality seeds adapted to various weather conditions.
Bayer East Africa’s Denis Munene informed farmers about identifying certified seeds and using digital tools for selecting suitable seed varieties based on environmental factors. Farmers attending the Expo expressed appreciation for the practical knowledge and new agricultural technologies presented.
The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) used the Expo to educate farmers on seed certification, plant health, and laboratory testing for agricultural inputs, emphasizing the importance of quality standards in seeds and managing pests and diseases. This engagement aimed to enhance food security and safe trade through improved collaboration with farmers.
