Taita Taveta, KENYA: More than 900 sorghum farmers in Taita Taveta have signed a MoU with the EABL countrywide and are expected to reap from the benefits of a direct market.
The MOU is expected to see the farmers sell their produce directly to the beer manufacturer.
Speaking when he met sorghum farmers in Kitobo area, Taveta Sub County, CECM Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Davis Mwangoma asked the farmers to embrace crop diversification and consider the cultivation of drought-resistant crops such as sorghum which has a ready market.
“Let’s utilize the new Agriculture Program ‘Kilimo Biashara’ to guarantee food Security in the County,” said Mwangoma.
He added that plans are underway to purchase two threshing machines that will assist in sorghum harvesting as the department targets to improve the yields to 500 tonnes a year.
Kenya Cereal Enhancement Program – Climate Resilient Agriculture Livelihoods (KCEP-CRAL) representative Chemboi Kiprotich urged the farmers to invest in sorghum growing as they have guaranteed market.
The program officers will oversee the process from planting to the production stage.
“KCEP-CRAL provides you with seedlings, fertilizers, moisture mixers, financial literacy, and post-harvesting as long as you have paid the required 10% of the total amount required,” said Cheboi.
