Climate resilient crops, farming methods to characterize Nakuru Show

NAKURU Monday June 26, 2023

KNA by Anne Sabuni/ Dennis Aruwa

Farmers visiting the Nakuru Show will learn how to combat climate change through conservation tillage and adoption of climate resilient crops.

Exhibitors, who will be showcasing climate resilient farming practices, have their stands and demonstation farms ready for the event that opens its doors on July 12, 2023.

Among the crops on exhibition are short rain season maize varieties, wheat, sorghum and millet among other drought resistant crops. Sunflowers and Canola plants, which are known for their pure refined edible oils, are nearing harvesting and the farmers will get an opportunity to learn their cultivation.

Nakuru Agricultural Society of Kenya Show Chairman Dr Perminus Migwi, noted that more than 80 exhibitors had signed up and had their stands ready for the event.

“Drought has been a major problem in our country. Our county too has suffered immensely with the current food shortage being the reason for our emphasis on climate resilient agriculture in an effort to combat climate change.

“This year’s event has attracted new exhibitors among them the Export Processing Zone Authority, the Central Rift Valley Water Works Agency, Gacheha farm among other government parastatals and private agencies in showcasing new technologies in farming.

“Livestok Breeders will also have an opportunity to engage specialists in embryo transfers and other breeding technologies that will enable them improve their breeds for productivity,” added Dr. Migwi, noting that more than 150 exhibitors were expected.

Dr Migwi added that entry at the gates had been made easier by the installation of the fibre optics, with mobile money payment platforms open to allow easy processing of payment receipts and tickets.

“Judging for exhibitors will be made on July 11 and the best exhibitor will be awarded on the official opening day,” revealed Dr.Migwi while calling on exhibitors and members of the public to turn up in large numbers for this year’s show.

The Show’s Marketing Executive David Mwangi, while calling on members of the public to book the dates, disclosed that Sh250 will be charged at the gate, with children being charged Sh200 as entry fee.

“Special parties will be accorded subsidized rates. Stringent security measures are in place to prioritize safety for guests on that day. Public health services will guarantee clean water and healthy food in various exhibition stands for a better event experience,” he added.

The show will be officially opened by the President on July 14, 2023, with various leaders expected to grace the events on various days of the week. Family fun days on Saturday and Sunday July 15th and 16th respectively, will be the peak of the event.

“The Covid years kept us off but we are back across the country and Nakuru will exhibit in a big way. Traditional exhibitors too are still here and they will make our show a significant contributor to the agricultural sector.

"We are prepared to give the show goers an easy time to enjoy the show. A lot of events and entertainment will be going on at the arena and there is a lot to learn. It is a one stop laboratory especially for learners undertaking the CBC curriculum,” added Dr Migwi.

Courtesy ; K. N. A