Rongo Sub County has hosted its second annual agricultural exhibition, bringing together more than 100 exhibitors to showcase modern farming technologies, climate-smart innovations and value-chain solutions aimed at improving productivity and food security.
Speaking during the event, Migori County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture Moses Mosenda said the growing participation of farmers and exhibitors demonstrates the importance of partnerships and knowledge-sharing in transforming the agricultural sector in the county.
Mosenda said that this year’s theme ‘Transforming Agriculture through Innovation, Climate-Smart Technology and sustainable Value Chains for Enhanced Food Security and Prosperity’ aligns with the county blueprint of making Migori food secure.
Mosenda said the county has recruited nearly 65 agricultural extension officers over the past three and a half years, while more than 200 agripreneurs are working alongside the extension team to support Migori farmers.
He added that every ward has been equipped with a motorcycle to improve the mobility of extension officers. The county has also expanded the Miyare Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) by introducing demonstration enterprises such as goat keeping, fish farming and dairy production, alongside training programmes for young agripreneurs
The County official disclosed that to improve access to subsidised farm inputs, the county is engaging the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) to establish an additional fertiliser depot in the region.
The expo attracted stakeholders from the crop, livestock and fisheries sectors, as well as irrigation, mechanisation, seed supply, finance, value addition and digital agriculture.
Assistant County Representative-Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) official Hamisi Williams explained that climate change, rising production costs, population growth and changing market demands are some of the key challenges facing agricultural activities in the country.
Hamisi called for increased innovation and collaboration among farmers, agricultural partners, and the county government to ensure the county is food secure.
The official also reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, food security and inclusive rural development in partnership with government entities, farmers, researchers, development partners and the private sector.
Ann Atieno, a youth and resident from Rongo town, said that the exhibition had changed her negative judgement of farming, promising to venture into horticulture to improve her living conditions.
“On what I have seen here today, and the knowledge I have received from different exhibitors, especially in smart farming, I think going forward I will venture into horticulture to earn a decent living and improve my living conditions”, she said.
The exhibition encouraged farmers to interact with exhibitors, explore new technologies and build partnerships to improve productivity and resilience.
The annual expo is expected to strengthen collaboration and promote innovation and commercial agriculture across Migori County.
By Yvonne Mambo and Calton Ombok
