Laikipia Farmers Call for More Extension Officers to Enhance Agricultural Productivity

NAIROBI — In Laikipia, farmers are urging the county government to hire additional agricultural extension officers to help improve crop yields and farming practices. With over 105,000 farmers in the region, the current count of 100 extension officers is deemed insufficient to effectively cover the extensive agricultural needs of the area.

According to Kenya News Agency, chairman of the Agricultural Society of Kenya’s Nanyuki branch, each extension officer in Laikipia is tasked with supporting approximately 500 farmers, a ratio that significantly limits their ability to provide adequate advice and support. “Agriculture is a devolved function and therefore we call upon the county government to give a boost in the sector and bring back the extension officers to advise the local farmers for best crop production,” Kabuthia stated, highlighting the critical shortfall in technical support that has led to suboptimal agricultural outputs.

Kabuthia also noted the importance of sufficient funding for agriculture at the county level, advocating for budget allocations that prioritize the employment of more extension officers. These professionals play a crucial role in informing farmers about the best inputs and methods for improving crop yields and ultimately reducing hunger.

Additionally, the chairman emphasized the potential of strengthening 4K clubs in schools to engage young people with agriculture from an early age, suggesting that such initiatives could foster a greater appreciation and understanding of farming among future generations. He also encouraged students to consider agriculture as an academic subject to deepen their knowledge and preparedness for contributing to Kenya’s main economic sector.

The national Chief Executive Officer of the Agricultural Society of Kenya, Batram Muthoka, mentioned the development of a young farmer’s management portal designed to promote agriculture among the youth. The society also invited residents to attend upcoming agricultural exhibitions scheduled for next month, where new farming technologies and techniques will be showcased, offering local farmers opportunities to learn and adopt advanced agricultural practices.