Vihiga: The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) Mwea, in collaboration with the Korea Program on International Agriculture (KOPIA) Kenya Centre, has conducted a comprehensive training program for researchers, seed growers, and extension officers from six African countries on quality rice seed production and processing. This initiative aims to bolster food security and improve rice productivity across the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, the training included participants from Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. It focused on the technologies, innovations, management practices, and regulatory requirements essential for certified rice seed production. The program emphasized the significance of international cooperation in promoting agricultural innovation and knowledge exchange, as highlighted by Dr. John Gachara, Kirinyaga County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture.
Practical sessions were conducted at the certified rice seed processing facility at Kirogo Farm in Mwea, providing participants with hands-on experience in seed processing and quality assurance procedures. Dr. Alice Murage, KALRO Deputy Director General for Crops, acknowledged the support from KOPIA and development partners in building capacity to strengthen rice production systems across Africa.
Participants were encouraged by Dr. Murage to apply the knowledge acquired to enhance rice seed systems, increase productivity, and contribute to regional food security. Dr. Ruth Musila, Centre Director at KALRO Mwea, stressed the importance of quality seeds in transforming rice production and reducing import dependence. She highlighted that improved varieties like Komboka, Mkombozi, and Tongil, developed through Kenyan and South Korean collaboration, could significantly boost production and farmer incomes.
Dr. Ji Gang, KOPIA Kenya Centre Director, pointed out poor post-harvest handling, such as drying rice on roadsides, as a major challenge for rice farmers. He noted that the modernized post-harvest facilities in Mwea are addressing these issues by enabling clean drying and proper processing of rice seed, thus providing pure rice seed with high germination rates.
Participants from the region appreciated the training for imparting valuable skills and technologies transferable to farmers, enhancing rice production. Barnabas Sita from Tanzania remarked that the exchange of experiences and exposure to modern technologies would help strengthen rice farming systems in their respective countries. He also noted that regional governments are investing in new technologies and equipment to improve rice production, and the training would aid extension officers in supporting farmers to adopt improved practices.
This training is part of ongoing efforts by KALRO and KOPIA to promote sustainable rice production and improve food security in the region.
