Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich on June 18, 2024, presided over the registration and distribution of pyrethrum seeds from Kentegra at Sergoit Chief’s office, to 327 new farmers Kamariny Ward.
The 400 sachets, enough to plant 100 acres is expected to mature and hit the market by November this year. This will translate to earnings of more than Ksh1.5 million monthly, when farmers harvest 50 kgs on average.
“We intend to have each family in the county earn from cash crop to drastically reduce poverty rate that stands at 46% above national average of 36%,” said the Governor.
The County boss later visited Area MCA Benjamin Cheptiony’s farm where he has established nurseries, enough to grow five acres.
The MCA has taken a bold step of empowering his neighbours.
Accompanying the Governor were County Agriculture extension officers among other staff.
Launch of cash crop seeds in the Sambirir Ward
A day earlier, Sambirir Ward witnessed the launch of cash crop seeds that is expected to benefit the local farmers and contribute towards the agricultural growth of the region.
Agriculture Chief Officer Edwin Komen oversaw the distribution of coffee, cotton and avocado seedlings.
The distribution of 135kgs of cotton seeds to lower Sambirir, 3,600 seedlings of Hass avocad and 20kg of coffee seeds which translates to 80,000 seedlings to farmers will help increase cash crop production in the area, providing an additional income source for farmers.
The upcoming distribution of mangoes and pixies seedlings will also contribute to adding more variety to the cash crops grown in the region.
