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Small Scale Maize Farmers In Western Kenya

Small Scale Maize Farmers In Western Kenya

April 8, 2022 6:28 am

Wamugunda Anne

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Western Kenya is famously recognized for its production of Kenya’s staple food crop, maize. Areas in the Western region that practice small scale maize farming mainly come fromkakamega, Bungoma, Busia and Trans Nzoia counties, and some other parts of Nyanza and Rift Valley. However, all is not rosy for these hard working men and women because of the numerous troubles they have to go through.

Firstly, the lack of awareness of modern, improved technical knowhow and agrcultural practices. This can be attributed largely to a lack of sufficient interaction between farmers and extension officers and research experts in the area. Farmers still rely on traditional farming methods which lead to reduced production.

In addition, the use of unsuitable seeds is common in the region. The seeds come from outside and is usually untested on its suitability in the area. Besides, most farmers end up with uncertified seeds which may be prone to diseases and intolerant to the region’s climatic condition.

Furthermore, a lack of the necessary farm inputs is a problem that most farmers grapple with in this region. Most people are poor and unable to afford basic farm inputs. Accessing financial aid and credit is also a thorn in the flesh for most of the small scale maize farmers in the region.

Moreover, there has been evident trend of changing climate making it difficult for farmers to accurately predict when to plant. In most cases, farmers either plant too early before the onset of sufficient rains, or too late into the rainy season. This negatively affects maize production in the area.

Other problems that small scale maize farmers face in Western Kenya include insufficient labor, lack of farm machinery, poor storage facilities and low rate of adoption of modern technological techniques in maize production. In general, small scale farmers in Western Kenya are going through tough times in their quest to feed the nation. It is evident that a problem of agriculture in the region results in a serious food crisis in the entire country because maize is the staple food of almost all Kenya’s communities.

About the Author

Wamugunda Anne

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Hailing from the fertile highlands of central Kenya, Wamugunda-Anne's life has always been intertwined with the land. Born into a family of farmers, her earliest memories are of verdant fields, changing seasons, and the rhythm of nature. These formative experiences would later shape her academic and professional pursuits.

Wamugunda-Anne's passion for agriculture was not just about the practice but understanding its deeper implications — the sociological, environmental, and economic intricacies of farming in Kenya. This passion drove her to one of Kenya's prestigious universities, where she pursued a degree in Agricultural Sciences. Throughout her academic journey, she became renowned for her insightful articles on sustainable farming practices, emphasizing the balance between modern techniques and traditional Kenyan agricultural wisdom.

After university, Wamugunda-Anne transitioned into a full-time career in agricultural journalism. Her works have since been published in numerous national and international journals. Beyond just writing, she has played a pivotal role in shaping agricultural policies in Kenya by collaborating with policymakers, researchers, and local farmers. Her articles often focus on the challenges faced by Kenyan farmers, sustainable agricultural practices, and innovative solutions to boost food security in the region.

Today, Wamugunda-Anne stands as a beacon of inspiration in Kenyan agricultural circles. With every article she writes, she hopes to enlighten, inspire, and pave the way for a sustainable agricultural future for Kenya and the African continent at large.