Led by Agriculture Chief Officer Newton Mwaura, the distribution saw 11,429 seedlings allocated to Subukia Ward and 4,286 seedlings handed out to farmers in Waseges Ward. Key leaders, including Subukia Ward MCA Hon. Isabella Makori, Waseges Ward MCA Hon. Elijah Murage, and Subukia Sub County agricultural officers, oversaw the process.

Empowering Farmers with More Than Just Seedlings

Beyond seed distribution, the county government provided hands-on training in essential areas such as:

• Best planting techniques
• Pest and disease management
• Avocado crop maintenance
• Market-oriented production planning

This comprehensive training ensures that farmers can maximize productivity while adopting sustainable farming practices.

“This initiative represents a significant step towards empowering our farmers and strengthening our local economy,” said Chief Officer Newton Mwaura. “By providing both quality seedlings and the necessary knowledge, we are laying the foundation for long-term agricultural success.”

Focus on Crop Diversification and Economic Growth

A central goal of the project is to encourage crop diversification, helping farmers reduce reliance on traditional crops while creating new income streams. The chosen Hass avocado variety, known for its early maturity and prolonged fruiting season, is expected to offer substantial returns.

Farmers expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the support, noting that avocado farming not only requires less labor and time investment but also holds high potential for domestic and export markets.

A Vision for a Thriving Agricultural Sector

The seedling distribution is part of a larger, ongoing strategy by the Nakuru County Government to promote resilient agriculture, food security, and economic empowerment.

As avocado farming continues to gain momentum in Kenya, such targeted initiatives position Nakuru as a leading hub for commercial horticulture and agro-based development.

Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe has directed the destruction of 27,518 bags of expired fertiliser held in National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) stores nationwide.

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) will oversee the safe disposal of the expired Sulphate of Ammonia (21%) fertiliser, which was supplied by Fine Tech Edge Ltd between December 27, 2024, and January 6, 2025.

Initial Compliance & Discovery of Short Shelf Life

Before contract execution, KEBS tested fertiliser samples, confirming that the product met Kenyan standards for Sulphate of Ammonia (21% N) and NPK fertilisers. Based on this approval, the supplier delivered 34,100 bags (each weighing 50 kg) to NCPB.

However, NCPB later discovered the fertiliser had a short shelf life, set to expire on February 28, 2025. Given the limited timeframe, NCPB requested the supplier to provide a longer-lasting alternative, as selling the entire batch before expiry was deemed unlikely.

Sale Stoppage and Destruction Order

On February 27, 2025, NCPB issued a sale stoppage order, while KEBS seized the fertiliser on March 4, 2025, preventing further movement or sale.

“The unsold fertiliser will not be released to the market and will be safely destroyed as per standard operating procedures,” Kagwe affirmed.

Since the fertiliser was supplied on a consignment basis, Fine Tech Edge Ltd retains ownership until the products are sold. As a result, the company will bear all financial losses and destruction costs.

Government Commitment to Quality Inputs

CS Kagwe reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring Kenyan farmers receive high-quality farm inputs, while safeguarding public health and environmental standards.

“The government and Kenyan public will not incur any loss or costs,” he stated, urging agricultural suppliers to consider insurance coverage to mitigate such risks.

Conclusion

The destruction of expired fertiliser underscores the government’s vigilance in regulating farm inputs and ensuring that substandard or expired products do not reach Kenyan farmers. KEBS will continue to monitor fertiliser quality, while NCPB remains committed to protecting farmers from ineffective or harmful inputs.

Protecting Farms, Supporting Livelihoods

Located within the Hanshak Nyongoro Conservancy, the project is supported by Innocent Foundation, NRT, and the Lamu County Government. Speaking at the launch, NRT Project Officer Mohammed Said highlighted the significance of this initiative for the Orma community.

“The fence will protect our farms from wildlife such as hippos and buffaloes, which are common in this region near the Tana Delta,” said Said.

The project also integrates a water pump system, sourced from the Tana River, to ensure sustainable irrigation without disrupting wildlife water needs.

Expanding Support Across the Region

In addition to the Chalaluma farm, NRT is distributing 10 more water pumps across Ndera and Lower Tana Conservancy areas to support similar farming ventures. This effort aims to assist pastoralist communities transitioning to agriculture amid challenges posed by climate change.

Galgalo Jaffar, an overseer at the Ibsa Self-Help Group farm, praised the initiative for its timely intervention.

“This project addresses climate change’s impact on our pastoral lifestyle, reducing wildlife conflicts and boosting food production and income,” he stated.

Scaling Up Solutions to Combat Climate Change

NRT Lamu Director Hassan Yussuf Hassan emphasized the organization’s commitment to mitigating climate change impacts on marginalized communities.

“We plan to replicate the solar-powered electric fence across Lamu and Lower Tana Delta areas to reduce human-wildlife conflicts and improve the quality of life,” he said.

Government Pledges Continued Support

Lamu Governor Issa Abdalla Timamy commended the project and announced plans to lease an additional 100 acres for similar initiatives, citing their potential to transform food security in Lamu County.

“The success of the Ibsa Self-Help Group farm shows how these projects can feed not only Chalaluma and Moa but the entire county,” said Timamy.

The governor also promised to provide seedlings and fertilizers for future projects, applauding NRT’s efforts in empowering marginalized communities to overcome challenges related to human-wildlife conflict and climate change.

Conclusion

The solar-powered electric fence initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing food security, wildlife conservation, and climate change adaptation. With plans for expansion, this project is poised to transform lives across Lamu County and beyond.

According to Shohei Aoki, the coordinator of JKUAT’s Robotic Dojo Programme, local technological solutions are becoming increasingly vital for addressing the challenges faced by farmers. These challenges include rising food demand and a shrinking rural workforce. One of the key innovations presented involves the use of laser sensors for autonomous navigation, offering a promising solution to support precision farming and reduce post-harvest losses.

The newly designed robots are capable of mapping fields and determining the specific needs of different crops. This technology enables more efficient use of water, fertilizer, and pesticides, resulting in less waste, higher crop yields, and the promotion of sustainable farming practices. Aoki explained that robots, through precision farming, can also act as autonomous seeders, planting seeds accurately across fields to ensure uniform crop growth and reduce the labor-intensive nature of seeding.

In addition to their agricultural applications, autonomous robots with laser sensors have the potential to revolutionize the hospitality industry. These robots can be used for tasks such as cleaning and room service, providing effective and reliable service without human intervention. Basic household appliances, such as vacuum cleaners, can also benefit from this technology by intelligently navigating spaces for thorough cleaning.

Aoki further highlighted the broader impact of self-driving technology, noting its potential to improve efficiency and productivity across various sectors. He emphasized that autonomous robots could greatly enhance weed and pest control by precisely spraying herbicides and pesticides only where needed, reducing chemical usage, saving money, and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, these robots are designed to autonomously harvest crops by identifying ripe produce and picking it efficiently, which is particularly valuable during labor shortages.

The Robotics Dojo programme, now in its third year, plays a key role in the AFRICA-ai-JAPAN Project, which aims to develop local talent and accelerate robotics research. This year’s competition focused on the use of laser sensors for autonomous navigation, a technology that holds great promise for local farmers. Aoki mentioned that students were given a budget of no more than Sh20,000 to develop experimental robots.

Dr. Hiram Ndiritu, Principal of the College of Engineering and Technology at JKUAT, underscored the growing significance of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors. He explained that robots equipped with laser sensors are poised to revolutionize industries beyond agriculture, including hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing. In the hospitality sector, for instance, autonomous robots can enhance room service and cleaning efficiency by navigating spaces with precision and reducing the need for manual labor.

Dr. Ndiritu stressed the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation in the field of robotics, urging students to remain curious and proactive in developing new skills. He encouraged them to pursue further research and development, noting that these innovations will play a critical role in shaping the future of technology-driven industries in Kenya and beyond.

New Regulatory Authority

The Bill proposes the establishment of the Livestock Inputs and Products Regulatory Authority, which will oversee various aspects of livestock production. This new authority will regulate the production, manufacture, importation, exportation, distribution, and sale of animal feedstuff, including fodder, concentrates, supplements, feed additives, and premixes. The authority will ensure that these products meet national standards and will approve and register breeding animals while conducting performance recording and genetic evaluations.

Licensing and Penalties

Under the Bill, only registered livestock farmers will be permitted to manufacture and sell animal feeds. Unregistered individuals found engaging in these activities will face significant penalties, including fines of up to Sh500,000 or a year’s imprisonment. Additionally, the Bill prohibits the use of unapproved ingredients in animal feed, with violations resulting in fines of up to Sh2 million or a two-year jail term.

Registration and Licensing Requirements

The Bill mandates that anyone involved in commercial livestock breeding must be registered with the new authority and possess a valid license. Registered breeders are restricted to using their licensed facilities solely for livestock breeding activities unless otherwise permitted by the authority. The Bill also includes provisions for the registration of beekeepers and the regulation of bee hive standards and disposal methods.

Impact on Government Structure

The implementation of the Bill will lead to the creation of new government positions, including a chairperson appointed by the President, a Principal Secretary for Livestock, and several other key roles such as the Director of Veterinary Services and the Director of Livestock Production. The Bill proposes that the new authority replace the National Livestock Development and Promotion Service.

Institutional Framework

The new regulatory framework will involve the establishment of several institutions to support the livestock sector. These include the Kenya Livestock Research Organisation, the Livestock and Livestock Products Marketing Board, and the Livestock Inputs and Products Regulatory Authority. The Bill also envisions strengthening these institutions through the creation of training facilities aimed at boosting sector productivity.

Conclusion

Kimani Ichung’wah’s proposed Livestock Bill 2024 represents a comprehensive attempt to modernize and regulate Kenya’s livestock industry. While it promises to bring order and efficiency to the sector, the Bill will also add new administrative layers and potentially increase government expenditures, challenging the current focus on austerity measures.

Strategic Partnership with Incentro

Embracing the rapid evolution of technology, Juhudi Kilimo partnered with Incentro to boost operational efficiency through Google Workspace, a versatile suite of cloud-based collaboration tools. Recognizing the potential of Google Workspace, Juhudi Kilimo aimed to revolutionize its operations by maximizing collaboration, productivity, and overall success. With Incentro’s guidance, they expanded their usage of Google Workspace and conducted comprehensive training for administrators to ensure optimal utilization and continuous enhancement.

Driving Change through Training and Development

Training forms a crucial component in harnessing the full potential of any digital platform, including Google Workspace. Juhudi Kilimo, in collaboration with Incentro, designed tailored training programs for their administrators. These sessions were crafted to provide hands-on experience and practical insights into Google Workspace’s diverse features. Through workshops, demonstrations, and interactive sessions, administrators gained proficiency in tools like Google Meet and Google Drive, enhancing workflow efficiency and fostering collaboration across the organization.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

By investing in comprehensive training, Juhudi Kilimo demonstrated a steadfast commitment to innovation and growth. Empowered with new skills and knowledge, their administrators are well-equipped to lead digital transformation initiatives, driving organizational success and future growth. This proactive approach not only strengthens internal capabilities but also reinforces Juhudi Kilimo’s position as a leader in empowering rural communities through technology-driven solutions.

Values-Driven Collaboration and Impact

Beyond mere technology adoption, the partnership between Juhudi Kilimo and Incentro exemplifies a shared commitment to values and impact. Led by Elizabeth Akinyi and the Incentro team, this collaboration transcends transactional benefits, focusing on making a tangible difference in the communities they serve. It underscores the transformative power of technology in driving resilience, growth, and sustainable development.

Embrace Transformation with Incentro

Incentro’s success story with Juhudi Kilimo underscores the potential of technology to overcome challenges and redefine organizational landscapes. Organizations are invited to explore innovative solutions and embark on transformative journeys that prioritize collaboration, efficiency, and sustainable impact. Connect with us today to shape your organization’s future and embark on a journey of growth and success.

1) Algerian Ivy

Care level: Easy

As with any trailing ivy, the primary maintenance for this stunning houseplant is pruning its fast-growing vines. Algerian ivy loves a lot of shade and consistent watering.

2) Hoya Carnosa Tricolor

Care level: Easy

This waxy plant will grow trailing vines of white and green (and sometimes pink!) leaves. Pet friendly and nontoxic, it thrives in bright, indirect light with a watering every one to two weeks.

3) Pothos

Care level: Easy

You’ll love how the leaves of a silver satin pothos shimmer when the light hits them. Pothos plants are fuss free: Keep yours in partial to bright indirect light, and water it when the soil is mostly dry. Pro tip: You can easily expand your plant family by propagating these from cuttings.

4) Rubber Plants

Care level: Intermediate

The rubber plant requires bright, indirect light. You should only water it when the soil is dry. Rubber plants have the added benefit of being one of the best natural air cleaners out there. Place it near your favorite seating area to enjoy the fresh air.

5) Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Care level: Easy

Water this plant only when the top inch of the soil is dry. Place it in a corner to create a dramatic focal point.But make sure it gets bright, indirect light.

6) Anthurium

Care level: Intermediate

Known for its waxy, heart-shaped flowers with a prominent stamen in the center, this plant needs to be watered every one to two weeks and requires occasional fertilizing—so it’s not low-maintenance, but it’s not high-maintenance, either.

7) Bird-of-Paradise

Care level: Intermediate

This tropical plant will definitely prosper in a bright, sunny spot, but it can handle lower light levels too. You’ll need to fertilize it often in the spring and summe. Otherwise, it’s fairly simple to handle—so long as you don’t overwater it.

8) Snake Plant

Care level: Easy

Indirect light is ideal for these plants (also called mother-in-law’s tongue), along with light waterings only after the soil has fully dried. Place it in an elevated planter to add interest to an empty corner in your hall.

9) Watermelon Peperomia

Care level: Easy

Peperomia argyreia—also known as the watermelon peperomia or watermelon begonia—is a member of the Piperaceae plant family, which is native to northern South America. Despite its names, this plant actually has nothing to do with watermelons or begonias. It loves low- to bright-indirect light and can tolerate a missed watering but prefers to be well watered when the soil is half dry.

10) Aloe Plant

Care level: Easy

Aloe loves the sun and requires water only once a week— let the soil dry completely in between. Put your plant in a tall pot that will help keep the leaves off the table.

1) Lettuce Farming: Cultivating Green Gold

Lettuce reigns as a crown jewel among Kenya’s agricultural treasures, coveted both locally and internationally for its exceptional nutritional profile. Rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber, this verdant delight holds a superior status in the world of vegetables. A single head of lettuce fetches between Sh70 to Sh100, making it a lucrative venture for farmers. With diligent cultivation, a bountiful harvest can yield profits ranging from Sh100,000 to Sh150,000 per month.

But the allure of lettuce extends beyond its monetary rewards. Its cultivation fosters a sense of pride and sustainability, contributing to the nutritional well-being of communities. As consumers increasingly prioritize health-conscious choices, the demand for lettuce continues to soar, promising enduring prosperity for those who till the fertile soils of this leafy green.

2) Mushroom Farming: Unveiling the Fungi Frontier

Mushroom farming in Kenya has emerged as a beacon of innovation, transforming what was once a complex endeavor into a streamlined operation. Through extensive research, training, and the introduction of resilient varieties such as Oyster mushrooms, cultivation has been demystified for aspiring farmers. Unlike traditional crops, mushrooms thrive in compact spaces, requiring just a quarter acre of land for incubation and cropping houses.

Vertical farming techniques further optimize space utilization, allowing ambitious growers to maximize their yields. With careful management, a single cropping room boasting 1000 bags can yield close to 2 tons of button mushrooms, fetching lucrative returns in the market. As demand surges from supermarkets, hotels, and even neighboring countries like Uganda, mushroom farming presents a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs to capitalize on this burgeoning industry.

3) Dania Cultivation: Harnessing Nature’s Bounty

Dania, also known as coriander, stands as a testament to nature’s generosity, offering a plethora of health benefits alongside substantial economic returns. Thriving in Kenya’s favorable climate, this aromatic herb boasts a rich nutritional profile, containing essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Beyond its culinary appeal, dania is revered for its medicinal properties, addressing ailments ranging from coughs to high blood pressure.

Embarking on a dania farming venture requires minimal investment, with approximately Ksh. 1,000 sufficing for seeds per plot of land. By embracing organic farming practices and eschewing chemical fertilizers, growers can ensure robust plant growth and enhance market desirability. With proper care and attention, an acre of coriander farm holds the potential to yield up to Ksh. 40,000 monthly, providing a sustainable source of income for diligent cultivators.

4) Garlic Farming: Cultivating Flavor and Health

Garlic farming in Kenya represents a pinnacle of horticultural excellence, offering not only culinary delight but also a plethora of health benefits. As a member of the onion family, garlic thrives under optimal conditions, rewarding growers with its distinctive flavor and nutritional potency. To achieve success in garlic cultivation, meticulous attention to detail is paramount, encompassing factors such as soil quality, seed selection, and environmental suitability.

Though demanding in its requirements, garlic farming holds immense promise for those willing to invest in skill development and research. By prioritizing organic practices and catering to the discerning tastes of the export market, farmers can unlock the full potential of this high-value crop. With patience and perseverance, garlic farming stands as a testament to the enduring allure of agricultural pursuits.

5) Fish Farming: Navigating the Aquatic Realm

The landscape of fish farming in Kenya has undergone a remarkable transformation, ushering in an era of unprecedented opportunity for enterprising individuals. Departing from reliance on natural water bodies, commercial fish farming has gained prominence, offering a sustainable alternative to meet the burgeoning demand for white meat. With species such as African catfish, Nile tilapia, and rainbow trout dominating the market, the potential for profitability is immense.

Establishing a fish farm requires careful consideration of various factors, including pond design, feed management, and market dynamics. By leveraging modern techniques and embracing innovation, farmers can optimize production and maximize returns. With a growing appetite for fish both domestically and regionally, fish farming presents a lucrative avenue for investment, promising both economic prosperity and environmental sustainability

6) Poultry Farming: Nurturing Flocks for Profitable Returns

Poultry farming stands as a cornerstone of Kenya’s agricultural landscape, offering a diverse array of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether raising indigenous breeds, layers, or broilers, poultry farming holds immense promise for those willing to invest in proper infrastructure and management practices. With meticulous attention to housing standards and market dynamics, poultry farmers can unlock the full potential of this thriving industry.

As the preferred source of protein for many Kenyan households, chicken and eggs command a steady market demand, particularly from hotels and supermarkets. By adopting a strategic approach to marketing and product differentiation, poultry farmers can carve out a niche for themselves in this competitive landscape. With dedication and foresight, poultry farming emerges as a pathway to sustainable livelihoods and enduring prosperity.

7) Passion Fruit Cultivation: Harvesting Success in Kenya’s Orchards

Passion fruit farming epitomizes Kenya’s agricultural renaissance, offering a tantalizing blend of economic viability and environmental stewardship. With its vibrant hues and succulent pulp, passion fruit enjoys widespread popularity both locally and internationally. Whether consumed fresh or processed into juices and other delicacies, this versatile fruit holds immense commercial potential for discerning farmers.

Capitalizing on innovative cultivation techniques and market insights, passion fruit farmers can capitalize on burgeoning demand, both at home and abroad. By embracing climatic diversity and creative space utilization strategies, growers can maximize yields and optimize resource efficiency. As farmers across the country pivot towards passion fruit cultivation, a new era of agricultural prosperity dawns, promising a fruitful harvest for those who dare to dream.

Most indoor plants prefer bright indirect sunlight ,shaded areas can hinder the best growth as this reduces photosynthesis of the plants through their leaves. Pick plants that can survive in low light intensity such as snake plant, Sansevieria sp.

These type Sansevieria sp.as well as a few others are quite hardy as they are low maintenance when it comes to watering which is ideal for people who are constantly out of town every often. The hardy plants can also help the less experienced plant lovers to avoid over watering.

By having a plant guide, such experiences can be managed with ease and help understand more plant varieties and their requirements.

Plants help to connect our senses to this nature that we are part of by producing a calming effect. Mostly plants are viewed from idea that they can only be enjoyed from outdoors, this can however be limiting experience, especially for plant lovers ,who have little to no idea that actually, some of them can be brought close to their eyes and inside their houses. Akin to taking the wild into the house with little maintenance required.

Plants , once in or surrounding the house can be therapeutic and in turn boost our mood and make us happy! They also bring life in a room ,so anytime you find space within your room as long as there is good lighting be it the sitting area ,kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, balcony even office spaces including office desks make a point of having a houseplant. Plants make people happy!