Farmers to access data on the go

Agriculture PS Sicily Kariuki (right) with Kari director Ephraim Mukisira admires a 90kg banana at a demonstration plot in Kari-Embu during the launch of the E-extension services to boost access to information on April 15, 2014. The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a website that will enable farmers countrywide to  access information on proper crop and animal husbandry. PHOTO/CHARLES WANYORO

What you need to know:

  • The site, which will be accessible at the ward level, will offer data on when to plant, the right seeds and fertiliser to use. It will have videos to guide growers on best farming practices and answer questions through text messages.

The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a website that will enable farmers countrywide to  access information on proper crop and animal husbandry.

This is in a bid to enhance extension services and boost production.

The site, which will be accessible at the ward level, will offer data on when to plant, the right seeds and fertiliser to use. It will have videos to guide growers on best farming practices and answer questions through text messages.

Speaking during the launch of the e-extension services at Embu Kari headquarters yesterday, Agriculture Principal Secretary Sicily Kariuki said lack of proper information was a major hindrance to efforts to enhance food security.

She said there was an acute shortage of extension workers, with only one serving more than 1,500 farmers, instead of the internationally recommended ratio of 1:400.

Ms Kariuki challenged county governments to employ more extension staff and help more young people to engage in farming.