Nakuru: The Agricultural Training Center (ATC) in Nakuru County has received a substantial enhancement with the introduction of ICT equipment for the Nakuru call center, marking a pivotal development in the delivery of agricultural services throughout the county.
According to Kenya News Agency, this initiative, funded by the EU and DANIDA through the AgriFI food safety program, is expected to transform the way agricultural services are delivered. The county’s Chief Agricultural Officer, Newton Mwaura, expressed that the newly equipped call center will offer farmers real-time access to essential agricultural information, such as weather updates, market trends, best practices, and expert advice. By utilizing advanced ICT, the ATC will be able to provide timely and relevant training programs, reaching a broader spectrum of farmers through online platforms and virtual workshops.
Mwaura emphasized that this ICT infrastructure will empower farmers to make informed decisions based on data-driven insights, includin
g soil analysis reports, crop health assessments, and market forecasts. These insights are crucial for local farmers who often face challenges such as glut production, particularly with maize and potatoes, which forces them to sell at low prices benefiting middlemen. The call center is also expected to connect farmers with potential buyers, both locally and internationally, thereby expanding their markets and increasing their income.
In addition to enhancing market connectivity, Mwaura noted that the ICT tools will foster community among farmers, enabling them to share experiences, collaborate on projects, and collectively address their challenges. However, Bernard Mwenje, the chairman of small-scale farmers in the county, expressed skepticism about the initiative’s potential success. He urged the National and County Governments to prioritize their members in procurement processes of institutions like prisons and schools, questioning the feasibility of officials helping them access broader markets.
The mode
rnized training facility’s additional benefits include providing a conducive learning environment for farmers, promoting skill development, and knowledge transfer. Furthermore, the inclusion of a pesticide residue analyzer will ensure the safety of food products, benefiting both consumers and producers. Training programs will also focus on sustainable agriculture techniques, such as climate-smart and organic farming, to promote environmental conservation and long-term food security.
By leveraging ICT, Nakuru County aims to empower its farming community, leading to increased productivity, improved livelihoods, and a more sustainable agricultural sector.