Farmers in Mangu Ward, located in Gatundu North Sub County, have recently gained significant support through an agricultural revitalization program aimed at boosting food security and promoting sustainable farming practices. This initiative is part of a broader county effort to enhance agricultural productivity and diversify income sources for small-scale farmers.
During a well-attended event held at Kiambu grounds, over 700 farmers from across Mangu Ward received critical farming inputs including certified maize seeds, fertilizer, and avocado seedlings. These resources are intended to empower farmers to increase crop yields and venture into high-value farming activities such as avocado cultivation.
The program represents a major expansion of the county’s planting season support initiative, which now spans all 12 sub-counties, ensuring that agricultural support reaches a wider population. This expansion reflects a commitment to comprehensive agricultural transformation and food security enhancement throughout the region.
Farmers were each given two kilograms of region-specific certified maize seeds along with ten kilograms of blended fertilizer, both carefully selected to suit local soil and climate conditions. Additionally, those interested in diversifying into avocado farming received up to five Hass avocado seedlings, sourced from local nurseries certified by the relevant plant health authorities. This approach ensures that the seedlings are of high quality and disease-free, increasing the likelihood of successful cultivation.
Avocado farming is seen as a strategic addition to the county’s agricultural portfolio. It is expected to provide farmers with a reliable alternative income source, taking advantage of the growing demand for avocados both within the country and in export markets. The county’s fertile soil and favorable rainfall patterns make Mangu an ideal location for this crop, and the initiative aims to transform the ward into a model for agribusiness success.
To complement the distribution of inputs, agricultural extension officers were present to provide on-the-spot training on modern farming techniques. These sessions covered essential topics such as planting methods, appropriate crop spacing, and disease prevention strategies. Such hands-on guidance is critical to ensuring that farmers can maximize the benefits of the inputs and improve their productivity sustainably.
Plans are also underway to establish a demonstration farm within Mangu Ward. This farm will serve as a practical learning center where farmers can observe best practices and innovative farming technologies in action. This initiative is expected to build local capacity and encourage the adoption of improved agricultural methods.
Local farmers expressed deep appreciation for the support, highlighting the timing as crucial given the rising costs of agricultural inputs that have made it difficult for many to access quality seeds and fertilizers. One farmer shared how she had almost given up on planting this season, but the program’s assistance has renewed her hope and ability to feed her family.
Beyond immediate input support, the county administration is working on additional programs aimed at youth empowerment through agribusiness training, the development of irrigation infrastructure for drier areas, and the establishment of a farm produce aggregation center in Gatundu North. This center will help farmers access markets more efficiently and secure better prices for their produce.
This agricultural revitalization initiative marks an important step toward transforming Kiambu into a key food basket for Central Kenya. With continued investment in farming inputs, training, infrastructure, and market access, the county is laying the foundation for a prosperous agricultural sector that supports livelihoods, strengthens food security, and fosters economic growth for its residents.
