Farmers to be more involved and take seriously, by field days and other farmers education and awareness opportunities, training and learning programs being provided to them by the County Government and partners.
The farmers ought to learn best practices in production, storage and marketing of crops. To earn maximum profits, farmers must be trained by various authorities in agriculture such as KEPHIS, and other organizations that are being invited in the County from time to time, to provide education, training and awareness.
It is sad and shocking, that when our farmers are invited for farmer field days, first they have to ask whether they will be provided with transport reimbursements, lunch and other small monetary facilitation, without realizing that the training and information they will receive in these trainings, is worth more than the expected cash tokens. This is bad especially, because it is affecting our people even in public participation exercises where residents are meant to attend and give views on development and policy making.
Governor Meru county,Kiraitu Murungi
Eastern and Central Region Potato Fair
He spoke at Mitoone Primary School, Kiirua-Naari Ward, when he presided over the Eastern and Central Region Potato Fair.
Agriculture Department will continue educating and protecting farmers from exploitation. Hence, to ensure they make the best out of their hard work.
Trade and Cooperatives Department will work with all stakeholders to ensure full implementation of the New Potato Regulations. Furthermore to protect both farmers and traders in the Potato sector.
These sentiments were echoed by Kibirichia MCA Hon. Elijah Thuranira, who also explained the laws and regulations passed by the County Assembly, to protect and safeguard potato farmers.
The event attracted the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK) CEO and a renowned specialist in potato production, Wachira Kaguongo.
Potato is one of the four value chains Governor Kiraitu’s Government is investing on.
Others are macadamia, avocado and bananas.