Nairobi: Agriculture stakeholders have called on farmers to modernize farming methods and embrace value addition.
According to Kenya News Agency, they emphasized the importance of forging stronger partnerships with research
institutions to boost production and address persistent food insecurity issues.
During a symposium at Zetech University’s Technology Park, Mang’u Campus, researchers, agribusiness partners, and policymakers highlighted the necessity of moving away from traditional farming methods to eradicate hunger effectively. Despite agriculture being a crucial economic pillar-employing over 40 percent of the population and supporting more than 70 percent of rural households-the sector has seen a decline in crop and animal production over the years. The decline has been attributed to rising feed costs, unreliable rainfall, climate shocks, and outdated farming methods that fail to meet the growing demand for food.
Zetech University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Njenga Munene, stressed that partnerships with universities and industry players are vital for providing farmers access to research-based solutions, new farming models, and training aimed at improving yields and reducing losses. Prof. Munene stated, “Modernize agriculture to boost efficiency and resilience to safeguard the country’s food future. The shift from rain-fed agriculture must be reinforced by encouraging farmers to adopt technologies such as irrigation, improved feeds, digital tools, and scientific production models.”
The symposium provided an opportunity for farmers to engage with experts on emerging trends in livestock and crop production, explore modern equipment, and discuss integrating innovation into daily farm practices. Dr. Beauttah Mwangi, Director of the Technology Park, noted that the facility has consistently trained farmers on modern farming techniques, value addition, and business development, helping them strengthen production systems and achieve better income.
Industry partners such as Pembe Feeds, Osho Chemicals, TruVet, KNCCI, and Atlantis Solar Systems echoed the call for joint efforts to build resilient agricultural value chains. They highlighted that strong collaborations assist farmers in transitioning to more efficient, technology-driven systems.
Farmers attending the symposium praised Zetech University for its ongoing training in various areas, including poultry, dairy, pig farming, and animal nutrition. Many reported that the mentorship has improved their farm output and called for continued support, particularly in irrigation solutions, feed management, and value addition.
James Mwaura, a farmer and symposium participant, remarked, “More training forums are needed to sensitize farmers on emerging farming trends as well as proper husbandry that will assure boosted production. More involvement of the county governments and other institutions in this area is also needed.”