Eldama Ravine: Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Kiprono Rono has called on farmers to utilise the subsidised fertiliser to increase farm production and help attain food security in the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Rono emphasized that promoting food security means ensuring that every household has access to sufficient food. He noted that farmers are the backbone of the country’s economy, and increased food production will reduce the need for food imports and stabilize the national economy.
Speaking at the Mama Kitchen Garden and Community Field Day at the Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County, Dr. Rono also urged county governors across the country to establish more localised fertiliser distribution centers to make it easier for farmers to access these vital inputs. He further encouraged farmers to register in groups, which would help them access government services more efficiently.
Baringo County Governor Benjamin Cheboi and area Member of Parliament Musa Sirma echoed the PS’s sentiments, urging Baringo residents to embrace diversified farming practices, including rearing chickens at home. The Mama Kitchen Garden Community Day was attended by a diverse group of farmers who showcased a variety of farming practices, including mixed farming and value addition. The event was significant in promoting food security, a programme supported by the government and First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto.
Farmers also shared their survival tactics for adapting to the challenges posed by climate change, which is increasingly being felt in Baringo and across Kenya. The event highlighted the critical role of farmers in ensuring food security and supporting the nation’s agricultural goals, which helps in reducing food importation and stabilising the economy.