Hundreds of farmers from across the Kerio Valley converged at Cheptebo Rural Development Centre today for a vibrant farmers’ field day. The event focused on equipping smallholders with certified seeds, practical agricultural advice, and stronger market linkages just as the long rains planting season approaches.
Participants came from farms in Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Baringo, and parts of Uasin Gishu counties. Many arrived early, eager to inspect seed varieties, speak with extension officers, and connect with input suppliers and buyers.
High Turnout Signals Strong Demand
The large attendance reflected growing interest in quality inputs and information. Farmers inspected displays of drought-tolerant maize, sorghum, beans, and horticultural seeds suited to the valley’s semi-arid and transitional zones.
Stalls offered demonstrations on soil testing, integrated pest management, and climate-smart techniques. Exhibitors included seed companies, agro-dealers, government extension services, and NGOs working in the region.
The Kerio Valley faces challenges like erratic rainfall, soil erosion, and limited access to certified seeds. Events like this help bridge those gaps and boost productivity.
Strengthening Linkages with Stakeholders
Centre Director Joseph Kimeli highlighted the event’s success in building connections. He noted that the field day has become a reliable platform for direct farmer-stakeholder engagement.
“Today we have successfully brought together farmers and exhibitors, creating linkages that are already bearing fruit,” Kimeli said. “We thank all the exhibitors who came with seeds and technical support to educate farmers in the Kerio Valley region.”
The centre, run by the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, has hosted similar days for years. It serves as a hub for training, demonstration plots, and farmer outreach in the valley.
Focus on Certified Seeds and Best Practices
Certified seeds dominated discussions. Farmers learned about varieties resistant to striga, drought, and common diseases. Many left with subsidized or donated packets to trial on their plots.
Extension officers stressed proper planting timing, spacing, and fertilizer use. They advised on conservation agriculture to preserve soil moisture and fertility in the face of changing weather patterns.
Market linkages received equal attention. Buyers from local cooperatives and processors shared requirements for quality produce. Some farmers signed up for contract farming arrangements for crops like green grams and cowpeas.
Building Resilience in the Valley
The Kerio Valley supports mixed farming systems. Maize, millet, sorghum, and livestock remain staples, while horticulture gains ground in irrigated pockets.
Field days like Cheptebo’s help farmers adapt. They gain knowledge on water harvesting, agroforestry, and value addition to improve incomes and food security.
Exhibitors praised the turnout. Many reported brisk orders and promising follow-up visits to farms.
Momentum Ahead of Planting
As rains begin to arrive, farmers now return to their fields better prepared. The connections made today promise ongoing support through the season.
Cheptebo Rural Development Centre plans more events. Officials say sustained engagement with stakeholders will continue to lift agricultural performance across the Kerio Valley.
