All roads will lead to the Mamboleo Showground next week as Kisumu gears up to host the highly anticipated Regional Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Show from July 16 to 20, 2025.
Kisumu Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) regional show chairman George Ng’udi said the event themed “Agriculture, Farming and Business – Promoting Growth for Economic Development,” has attracted over 150 exhibitors with thousands of visitors from across the country expected to grace the event.
Speaking in Kisumu during a radio interview, Ong’udi said this year’s edition will be the most impactful, with a strong focus on climate-smart agriculture, youth empowerment, and innovation.
“This year’s show is different from the others we’ve had before. The planning, the partnerships, and the objectives are all geared towards meaningful change. Our focus is on promoting smart agriculture and innovation as tools for sustainable economic growth,” said Ong’udi.
From modern dairy farming and improved crop management to digital farming tools and the Blue Economy, the show, he said, promises a dynamic mix of exhibitions, live demonstrations, and expert forums.
Ong’udi urged residents of Kisumu and the neighboring counties to attend in large numbers saying the show presented a golden opportunity for learning, networking, and empowerment.
Key players in Kenya’s agriculture sector, ranging from seed companies, financial institutions, and SACCOs to technology innovators and sugar processors, he said, have confirmed participation in the five-day event.
He added that major sugar factories, including Chemelil, Muhoroni, Sony, and Kibos, will showcase the sugarcane value chain from farm to product, with subsidized sugar sales expected to offer relief to consumers amid the rising cost of living.
Farmers, he added, will have access to certified seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs at discounted rates.
“At least 13 seed companies will be present, offering guidance on suitable varieties for different regions, while agronomists and livestock experts will provide training on sustainable farming practices,” he said.
Hands-on demonstrations with crops such as cassava, rice, maize, and arrowroots, he said, will showcase best practices, with a special spotlight on successful rice farming in Ahero.
Technology, he said, will feature prominently, with demonstrations of modern equipment for ploughing, irrigation, and post-harvest processing.
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), he said, will highlight opportunities in the Blue Economy, while health organizations, including the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU), Kenya Red Cross and St. John Ambulance will underscore the link between healthy communities and productive farming.
He assured heightened security throughout the event, adding that emergency medical teams will be on standby to ensure activities run smoothly.
As a buildup activity, a prayer and celebration ceremony will be held on July 13 ahead of the official opening of the show on 18th July 2025.
He added that entertainment by local artists will run throughout the show, adding vibrancy to the experience.
“The show will run daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Entry fees are set at Sh250 for adults and Sh200 for children, with special group packages available for schools and institutions,” he said.
As Kisumu prepares to host one of the most dynamic events in its farming calendar, organizers are optimistic that the show will not only educate and connect stakeholders but also inspire a new generation of farmers and agripreneurs.
“The economy may be tough, but agriculture remains a key pillar of development. With the right information and tools, we can turn things around,” said Ong’udi.
By Lynnet Ochieng’ and Tracy Anyango
