County Government distributes free seeds to over 35,000 farmers

ANNE KANGERO-KNA

More than 35,000 farmers in Machakos are optimistic about a productive season following the county government’s distribution of 74.9 tonnes of free certified seeds for planting.

Governor Wavinya Ndeti, who spoke during the seed distribution exercise in Kathaana, Kangundo West, said the seeds would be distributed to farmers across the 40 wards within 48 hours and planted immediately to enable them to take advantage of the rains.

“Timing is everything in farming, as rains do not wait for anyone. These seeds should reach all farmers in Machakos within 48 hours so they can begin planting for adequate and timely yields,” she said.

Wavinya added that the high-yielding, pest-resistant and climate-smart seeds were expected to produce 93,682 bags of grain from over 7,000 acres, thereby maximizing agricultural productivity and enhancing farmer profitability.

“My government is working day and night to satisfy farmers and seeds being distributed are crucial inputs for agricultural production and have potential for higher yields,” said the Governor.

She highlighted that to achieve maximum impact in production, they had mapped the soil condition in different parts within the county for the purposes of appropriate seed distribution to farmers.

The Governor said maize and beans seed would be given to areas with high rainfall and drier regions prone to drought would be issued with cow peas and pigeon peas.

Additionally, she affirmed that farming is more than just seeds and required farm input and experts consultation hence they have registered 200,000 farmers for subsidized fertilizer and 39 new extension officers to offer technical advice.

This development comes after a food and nutrition assessment was done by the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) which listed Machakos as a food insecure area after experiencing poor rainfall patterns in successive seasons.