Kerio Valley Farmers Urged to Adopt Climate-Smart Crops

Key Highlights

• Farmers in Kerio Valley urged to adopt drought-tolerant crops to boost income and food security.
• KVDA promotes sorghum, mangoes, and African foxtail grass as climate-smart options.
• African foxtail grass can yield up to 150 bales per acre with just one week of rainfall.
• Solar-powered boreholes and water pans established to ease water scarcity and reduce insecurity.
• KVDA scoops six awards at the Kabarnet Agricultural Show for excellence in community service and environmental standards.

Farmers in the Kerio Valley have been encouraged to embrace climate-smart crops and seedlings to adapt to the region’s harsh weather conditions and ensure steady income.

Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) Managing Director, Sammy Naporos, speaking during the ASK Show in Baringo, explained that the valley—80 percent of which is classified as Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL)—faces persistent water shortages, making traditional farming practices unsustainable.

He urged farmers to focus on resilient crops such as sorghum, mangoes, and African foxtail grass.

“The African foxtail grass, for instance, only requires one week of rain, and farmers can harvest up to 150 bales per acre twice per season,” said Naporos.

KVDA has expanded farmer training across its seven operational counties, strengthening capacity in sustainable agriculture, livestock production, and cash crops.

The authority has also invested in solarised boreholes and water pans to mitigate drought and insecurity challenges like banditry and cattle rustling.

Governor Benjamin Cheboi, who graced the event, pledged county support for modern farming technologies.

He pointed out that cash crops such as coffee and macadamia, which thrive in the highlands, could significantly improve incomes and transform livelihoods.

KVDA’s role in championing climate-smart agriculture was recognised at the Kabarnet Agricultural Show, where the authority scooped six awards, including Best Stand in Environmental Quality Standards and Best Organisation in Community Projects.