Molo: Farmers are being urged to adopt integrated weed management practices to boost crop yields and minimize pesticide use, which poses risks to human health and the environment. Speaking at a field training organized by the Agricultural Association of Kenya (AAK), Nakuru County Crop Protection Officer Hanna Oduor emphasized the dangers of excessive pesticide use.
According to Kenya News Agency, the training, held in collaboration with the Nakuru County and Sub-County Agricultural Department, saw participation from over 100 farmers in Turi ward. Hanna Oduor highlighted the need for sustainable methods such as crop rotation, timely weeding, and proper herbicide application. Oduor stated that ineffective weed control could reduce crop yields by up to 60 percent, a reality supported by agricultural studies across Kenya.
Oduor urged farmers to follow the guidelines provided by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) regarding proper pesticide handling, storage, and licensing. She stressed the importance of using only certified pesticides and cautioned against purchasing products from unlicensed sellers.
During the event, farmers were introduced to Spray Service Providers (SSPs), trained agricultural professionals responsible for safe pesticide application. Julius Mwangi, Molo Sub-County Agricultural Officer, noted that using SSPs reduces health risks and ensures correct dosage.
The meeting also addressed waste disposal, with Oduor warning against burning, burying, or reusing empty pesticide containers. She advised farmers to triple rinse and return them to collection points to prevent soil and water contamination.
Nakuru County Officer for Irish Potatoes Cultivation, Linnet Echesa, advocated for non-chemical methods like crop rotation and cover crops to reduce weed and pest pressure while enhancing soil fertility. Farmers James Mwangi from Elburgon and Mary Wambui from Turi shared positive outcomes from adopting these practices, such as increased yields and reduced health issues.
AAK representative Velma Wekesa introduced the potential of agricultural drones as a cost-effective pest control method. Benson Ngige from AAK revealed plans to expand outreach in remote areas through mobile learning clinics, aiming to revolutionize weed and pest management in the county.
As weed pressure intensifies in Molo, stakeholders are urging farmers to implement the training's insights for improved weed control, safe pesticide use, and proper disposal, fostering healthier harvests and a safer agricultural future.