Chuka: The first sorghum harvester has been unveiled at an exhibition in which over 800 farmers learning about a transformative agribusiness sector have gathered at Chuka University.
According to Kenya News Agency, the event, organized by the Eastern Africa Grain Council (EAGC), showcases groundbreaking agricultural technologies, market solutions, and post-harvest management strategies aimed at revolutionizing Kenya's agribusiness.
The highlight of the expo was the historic unveiling of Kenya's first sorghum harvester, a game-changer in mechanized farming. The harvester, demonstrated at the event, promises to enhance efficiency, reduce labor costs, and increase productivity for sorghum farmers.
The Council Managing Director Gerald Masila announced that the harvester would soon be tested in real farm conditions, allowing farmers to witness its full potential firsthand.
The exhibition focused on structured markets, post-harvest solutions, and agricultural aggregation, urging farmers to form groups and join EAGC.
Through Ji-Soko, an online trading platform, EAGC is helping farmers access reliable markets, ensuring fair pricing and reducing exploitation by middlemen.
Chuka University, a key partner in the event, emphasized the critical role of irrigation in achieving food security. Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Gilbert Nduru underscored the importance of continuous farmer education and the adoption of modern farming techniques to combat climate challenges.
Several agribusiness companies participated, offering cutting-edge food safety and irrigation solutions designed to boost productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.
Secretary of the Mwimbi Muringa Banana Cooperative Society Ms. Lilian Micheni lauded the training provided on post-harvest handling and loss prevention, which is crucial in ensuring farmers maximize their yields and profits. She revealed that her cooperative had been struggling with red sorghum market challenges, but thanks to EAGC, they have now been linked with a reliable buyer, solving a major hurdle for local farmers.
Ms. Micheni urged farmers to adopt drip irrigation systems to mitigate the effects of prolonged dry seasons and conserve water for sustainable farming.
The exhibition was hailed as a game-changer for smallholder farmers, equipping them with modern agricultural knowledge, innovative tools, and direct market access, setting the stage for a more profitable and resilient agribusiness sector in Kenya.