Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o Commends SGR Extension to Boost Local EconomyMigori County Advocates for Organic Fertilizers in Farming for Enhanced Health and Economy

Kisumu – Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o has expressed his approval of the national government’s decision to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu, a move anticipated to significantly enhance economic activities in the lakeside county. This development is expected to facilitate the efficient movement of people and goods from Mombasa to Kisumu and onward to Uganda upon completion of the project.

According to Kenya News Agency, the completion of this project will also play a crucial role in unlocking the potential of the western tourist circuit, known for its scenic beauty. He highlighted that this initiative would bolster activities at the recently refurbished Kisumu Port, creating numerous trade opportunities for residents of the Lake region. “I would like to thank Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen for announcing the long-awaited extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to Kisumu beginning this year,” he stated.

The governor, who also chairs the Lake Region Economic Bloc (BLOC), emphasized the region’s longstanding anticipation of the project. He urged the national government to expedite the implementation of this vital infrastructure development. On Monday, CS Murkomen announced the government’s plans to commence the project, expressing optimism that 35 percent of the work would be completed within the year.

Initially started by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, the SGR project was intended to stretch from Mombasa to Kisumu. However, it experienced a delay after phase 2A, running from Nairobi to Naivasha, was halted due to funding constraints. Nyong’o called on the government to fast-track the project to unlock the economic potential of the lake region and support its growth and development.

Migori: In a recent push for sustainable agriculture, Migori County has seen a growing debate among its farmers regarding the use of organic versus inorganic fertilizers, with a particular emphasis on the benefits of organic methods for both health and the economy. Agriculture, a key sector in Kenya, contributes significantly to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is a major source of employment.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Chairperson of the Kenya National Federation of Farmers (KEFFA) in Migori County, the preference for inorganic fertilizers among large-scale farmers, often described as ‘labor intensive,’ is a misrepresentation of their reluctance to commit to environmental conservation. Chacha, who cultivates over 40 acres using organic fertilizer near Kendege Technical Training Institute in Kuria East Sub-County, argues that both large and small-scale farmers can utilize organic fertilizers effectively. He points out that the use of inorganic fertilizers, while yielding quick results, often overlooks the long-term detrimental effects such as increased soil acidity, reduced soil fertility, and the introduction of harmful chemicals into the food chain.

In an exclusive interview with KNA, Chacha shared his own shift from inorganic to organic fertilizers, noting the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of the latter. He cultivates more than 10 different crops with a maturity period of three to six months and emphasizes the environmental and health benefits of organic fertilizers. These include rectifying soil pH, improving soil molecular structures, and producing crops that are healthier for human and animal consumption.

The cultivation of tobacco in the Kuria region, for instance, has led to increased soil acidity due to the chemicals used. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control highlights the detrimental impact of tobacco cultivation on soil nutrients.

Chacha, in collaboration with organizations such as Soil Fortify, Sidco, Earthforth, and Kenya Seed Company, has been actively engaging the community and students. He organizes agricultural shows and demos at his Kendege farm, teaching the importance of organic farming. He also encourages education stakeholders in the County to integrate organic farming practices into the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC), promoting healthy living through organic fertilizer usage.

Thomas Ogalo, an official from Earthforth and a soil scientist, also advocates for the normalization of organic fertilizers among farmers. He points out that the high demand in the market leads many farmers to opt for inorganic fertilizers for their rapid growth effects, often overlooking the negative consequences. Ogalo explains that products like Soil Fortify, containing Humic Acids derived from Leonardite, can amend the soil and replenish lost nutrients. He also highlights the cost-saving aspect of organic fertilizers, as they require a one-time application without the need for top dressing.

Additionally, Earthforth is working on implementing modern agriculture products tailored for CBC learners, aiming to foster appreciation for the farming sector in schools.