Nakuru: The County Government of Nakuru is developing an Agricultural Extension Policy to provide a clear framework for disseminating knowledge, technology, and advisory services to farmers in a bid to improve productivity and livelihoods.
According to Kenya News Agency, the policy seeks to promote a coordinated approach that brings together public institutions, private sector players, and non-profit organisations to minimise duplication of roles and wastage of resources. The County Chief Officer for Agriculture, Engineer Margaret Kinyanjui, emphasized that the policy will provide direction and sustainability in extension services, noting that the agricultural policy landscape has evolved, creating the need to modernise county systems and address emerging challenges.
During a review of the draft policy by a Technical Working Group (TWG) at the county headquarters, Engineer Kinyanjui highlighted that the document advocates for the integration of climate-smart technologies and drought-resistant crop advice into standard extension packages. She described the proposed policy as significant for Nakuru County, saying it is expected to streamline extension services, enhance coordination among stakeholders, and ultimately improve service delivery to farmers.
The Technical Working Group comprises sector specialists, non-governmental organisations, farmers, and researchers to ensure a participatory and inclusive process. Engineer Kinyanjui explained that the draft policy aims to establish sustainable, data-driven, and localised extension services. She noted that it is crucial in addressing gaps in the current system and ensuring a more structured approach to agricultural support in Nakuru County.
The policy seeks to improve service delivery, tackle localised agricultural challenges, and align county interventions with national and global sustainability goals. It will cover agricultural, livestock, and fisheries services, focusing on strengthening extension, promoting sustainable practices such as agroecology, and enhancing food security.
Chief Officer for Livestock, Fisheries, and Veterinary Services, Dr Michael Cheruiyot, underscored the importance of a well-structured agricultural extension system, saying it would ensure farmers receive accurate, timely, and practical information. He observed that a robust agricultural extension policy would strengthen linkages between research institutions, extension officers, and farmers, thereby improving productivity in livestock, fisheries, and crop production.
Dr Cheruiyot noted that the draft encourages leveraging Information Communication Technology, including mobile platforms and digital connectors, to bridge the gap between the limited number of extension officers and the large farming population. Through the collaborative process, he said, Governor Susan Kihika’s administration continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering farmers, strengthening agricultural systems, and positioning agriculture as a key driver of economic growth in the county.
The initiative also seeks to promote climate-smart agriculture and environmental conservation to ensure the long-term resilience of food systems. Dr Cheruiyot said the policy aims to harmonise efforts among stakeholders, improve service delivery, strengthen the agricultural value chain, and foster stronger research-extension linkages.
The county government expects that once finalised and approved, the Agricultural Extension Policy will provide a comprehensive framework to modernise extension services, enhance accountability, and ensure farmers across Nakuru access reliable, professional, and responsive support services.
