NGPU March 2, 2024

Nakuru Collaborates with Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) to Promote Nyota Bean Farming

Written by Mercy Kihugu

The County Government of Nakuru has supported 100 women from Njoro Ward by purchasing Nyota bean seeds before planting season begins during the “Nyota beans promotion initiative“.

The initiative is in collaboration with Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), and it’s aimed to promote Nyota beans farming which is gaining rapid popularity among small-scale and subsistence farmers.

The county supported the women farmers through a cost-sharing 50/50 program where each farmer purchased 4 kgs of Nyota beans, while the county provided 4 kgs for each farmer to get 8 kgs.

Nyota bean variety has been encouraged due to its rapid maturity, adaptability to diverse climates, and high levels of zinc and iron.

The exercise was led by Agriculture Chief Officer Newton Mwaura accompanied by Ms. Rose Nyambura, from the Office of the Governor who emphasized that the goal is to boost yields and ensure food security and nutrition from the household level in the county.

CO Mwaura noted the county is committed to continue supporting farmers and improving agricultural productivity within Nakuru by encouraging farmers to purchase subsidized fertilizer at Sh. 2500 from the Mauche depot as preparing for the upcoming planting season commences.

Consequently, Nyota bean farmers in Solai Ward, Rongai Sub-county received support for getting the market for their produce through the collaboration between the County, KALRO, and Farm to Market Alliance (FtMA).

The buyer bought the beans directly from the farmers where they appreciated the move noting that middlemen tend to take advantage of them especially when the produce is surplus.

The farmers were encouraged not to mix with other varieties as it reduces the quality of the bean leading to the buyer not purchasing their produce.

They were urged to always seek support from the extension service providers to get advice on proper agronomic practices.

They were accompanied by KALRO’s National Coordinator for Grains and Legumes Dr. David Karanja, Sub-county Agriculture Officer Emmah Mwangi, and Ward Agriculture Officer Njoro, Florence Malemba, Ruth Nduta, Njoro Coordinator.