Mangu Ward: Farmers in Mangu Ward, Gatundu North Sub County, have benefitted from an agricultural revitalization program launched by Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, as part of his administration's efforts to improve food security and promote sustainable farming practices.
According to Kenya News Agency, in an event held at Kiambu grounds, Wamatangi distributed certified maize seeds, fertilizer, and avocado seedlings to over 700 small-scale farmers drawn from across the ward. The event marks a significant expansion of the county's 2025 planting season support initiative, which now covers all 12 sub-counties.
"Today, we are planting more than just seeds in the soil - we are planting the future of food security and economic strength for our people," Wamatangi said. "Mangu farmers have shown resilience over the years, and we are here to ensure they are not left behind in this journey of agricultural transformation."
Each registered farmer received two kilograms of region-specific certified maize seeds, ten kilograms of blended fertilizer, and, for those interested in high-value farming, up to five Hass avocado seedlings. According to county officials, the seedlings were sourced from local nurseries certified by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS).
Governor Wamatangi said the move to incorporate avocado farming into the county's mainstream agricultural program was part of a long-term plan to diversify income for farmers and tap into the growing demand for avocados both locally and for export. "Mangu has fertile soil, dependable rainfall, and a hardworking farming community. With the right support, this ward can become a model for agribusiness success," he said.
Agricultural extension officers accompanied the distribution with on-the-spot training on planting techniques, crop spacing, and disease prevention, in addition to plans to establish a demonstration farm in Mangu for practical learning. Local farmers expressed gratitude, saying the initiative had come at a critical time when many could not afford quality seeds or fertilizer due to the rising cost of inputs.
"I had almost given up on planting this season," said Virginia Njeri, a maize farmer from Gathaite village. "This support has restored my hope and will help me feed my family."
The Governor assured residents that more programs were underway, including youth agribusiness training, irrigation infrastructure for drier areas, and a planned farm produce aggregation center in Gatundu North to help farmers access markets and better prices. "This is just the beginning. We are determined to turn Kiambu into the breadbasket of Central Kenya," he concluded.