Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr launches a digital soil sampling exercise

On Wednesday, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. initiated a digital soil sampling project at Kwa Kathoka, covering all 30 wards in Makueni County. The effort, driven by the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP) in collaboration with the county government and the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KARLO), seeks to evaluate soil fertility across the county.

Dr. David Kamau, KARLO’s Director for Environment and Natural Resources Management, explained that the program was motivated by nationwide soil fertility issues. This initiative is part of a broader national digital soil mapping initiative aimed at creating a soil information system to aid farmers in managing soil fertility.

Governor Mutula encouraged farmers to work with KARLO officers during the exercise, underscoring that the results would enhance crop growth, food production, and nutrition security in Makueni. “The soil analysis will help determine nutrient levels and guide farmers on proper fertilizer application,” said Mutula.

Over a three-month period, 120 young local agripreneurs—four from each ward—will gather soil samples, raise awareness, and educate farmers on the importance of soil testing. The launch event was attended by Agriculture CECM Joyce Mutua, Devolution CECM Nicholas Nzioka, Chief Officers Japheth Kiminza (Livestock) and Dr. Victoria Kyalo (Agriculture), along with other officials.