Wajir governor unveils modern farm equipment to boost agriculture

By Moses Muli

Published: March 19,2024 10:35 AM(EAT)

Wajir County has unveiled tractors and assorted modern farming equipment to encourage farmers to embrace large-scale farming to increase food production.

The initiative by Governor Ahmed Abdullahi involves deployment of the farm machinery to sub-counties.

This is aimed at putting more land under agriculture as the equipment will be accessible to residents of Wajir county.

Governor Abdullahi assured that the county is ready to provide necessary support to farmers to ensure they access to modern machinery to boost food security.

“In the last financial year due to successful and combined effort by the Department of Agriculture and our farmers we managed to achieve 33,974 metric tonnes across all the six sub counties with an estimated value of Sh1.6 billion. This is a clear manifestation that our county is viable and rich and there is room to produce more to sustain our economy,” said the Governor.

He was speaking during the launch of the modern farming equipment.

The governor also announced plans for comprehensive training to enable farmers to effectively utilise the machinery.

Abdullahi noted that the training will cover various aspects of modern farming techniques, including crop management, machinery operation, and irrigation practices.

He said that the launch of the farm machinery is a significant milestone in efforts to ensure sustainable food production in the county.

With continued investment and support, the agricultural sector is expected to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods.

Abdi Ali Osman, a farmer from Bute, Wajir North said that the initiative will help farmers who have been using old techniques and tools.

The governor was optimistic that the modern farm equipment will transform agriculture in Wajir county.

“Our goal is to empower our farmers with the tools they need to enhance productivity, increase incomes, and ultimately improve livelihoods across the county,” said Abdullahi.