Kitui farmers have been urged to take advantage of the early onset of the February–March rains by planting drought-tolerant and early-maturing crops to safeguard their harvests against a potentially short rainy season.
Speaking to the press, Kitui County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, advised farmers to align their planting decisions with the prevailing weather patterns to avoid losses.
“Farmers in areas that have received at least 20 millimetres of rainfall for three consecutive days should now begin planting and align themselves with the prevailing weather patterns to avoid losses,” he said.
Dr. Kimwele noted that the rains began earlier than expected but may not last long, making it necessary for farmers to prioritize moisture-efficient crops. He recommended sorghum, millet, pigeon peas and green grams, saying the crops perform well under minimal rainfall and thrive in arid and semi-arid conditions such as those experienced in Kitui County.
Farmers were also encouraged to liaise with local agricultural extension officers to identify suitable crop varieties for their specific areas.
On livestock farming, Dr. Kimwele advised farmers to establish suitable pastures, including Cenchrus ciliaris (Kiemauvunie), and to provide supplementary feeds and mineral supplements, especially during the first two to three weeks before pastures fully regenerate.
He further called on livestock keepers to intensify deworming and tick control through regular spraying with appropriate acaricides. Fish farmers were also advised to restock their ponds to maximize productivity during the rainy period.
At the same time, Dr. Kimwele urged young people to consider pursuing agriculture-related courses, noting that the sector offers vast opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.
He revealed that the county government, in partnership with the national government, is constructing a livestock training institute at Kanyonyoo along the Thika–Mwingi–Garissa Highway, opposite the Administration Police Training College, to enhance skills development in livestock production and strengthen agribusiness opportunities for youth.
The county government continues to encourage farmers to make informed decisions to enhance food security and build resilience against climate variability.
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