Farming, the way to go for Kajiado County

By Monica Soila

A livestock agribusiness tradefair was held on Thursday 27^th, which was organized by the County government in conjunction with Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock Development and Fisheries, for awareness creation on agriculture as a rather worthwhile business venture.

The event brought together many stakeholders like NGO’S, service providers, financial institutions, education institutions and many others. The public either did not disappoint as the attendance was relatively big.

Wisdom Innovations' products

There was a lot to learn, all in the same venue as different exhibitors showcased their merchandise. This made it an interesting learning experience. From online information on agricultural products; with Airtel Kilimo, similar to Sokopepe; to alerts on maize lethal necrosis disease (MLND).

People also learned about Smep Agri Loan products like msingi wa ukulima which helps an indigenous farmer to transform into a commercial farmer by facilitating purchase of farming inputs. Another one is mizizi loans which are meant for expansion of a commercial farmer’s farming.Musoni Microfinance was also there with related products.

The chief guest was H.E Dr.David Nkedianye, Governor of Kajiado County. On arriving at the venue, accompanied by other County Executives, he made rounds to see what was put forward by the stakeholders.

H.E Dr.David Nkedianye

“There is need to establish a demonstration farm to teach people how to grow some of these crops” said Dr.Nkedianye, who was very impressed by most of the displays. 

Agriculture being the backbone of the country, he urged the community to embrace it; more so as a business.

“With agriculture, one will not lack food on the table.Kshs 4 million has been set aside to refurbish shallow wells, construct dams and boreholes, to aid farming activities”, said the governor.

Dr. Nkedianye addressing the people

As the county government focuses to advance farming, other factors that directly affect these activities should also be addressed. Kajiado being a semi-arid area, climate change adaptation mechanisms should be in place for farming to gain momentum.