Kitui South, April 14, 2026 — The Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Mbaya Kimwele, on Tuesday led a team of agricultural officers on a field visit to Kyatune Ward in a move aimed at strengthening extension services and promoting climate-smart farming practices across the semi-arid region.
The visit followed a sub-county agricultural review meeting held earlier in Mutomo, where officers assessed ongoing programmes and explored ways to enhance service delivery. The team later toured the farm of local farmer Kennedy Mutati, whose diversified model is increasingly being seen as a benchmark for sustainable agriculture in dry areas.
Mr. Mutati’s farm integrates irrigated onion cultivation alongside citrus and pawpaw orchards, demonstrating the viability of irrigation-driven and diversified farming systems in boosting productivity and resilience against climate variability.
During the visit, the agricultural team offered targeted advisory support, focusing on pest and disease management, proper agrochemical use, soil fertility improvement, and efficient irrigation techniques. The intervention is part of a broader push to equip farmers with practical knowledge tailored to local conditions.
Dr. Kimwele underscored the importance of regular field engagements, noting that direct interaction between extension officers and farmers is critical in delivering effective, farmer-centered solutions.
“Strong extension systems are key to transforming agriculture at the grassroots level,” he said, adding that hands-on support enables farmers to adopt modern practices that improve yields and incomes.
The earlier review meeting was attended by Chief Officer for Agriculture Gladys Kivoto, who later proceeded to Mutha Ward for field engagements. Meanwhile, Director Kitoo led a separate team to assess farming activities in Mutomo. Several directors and technical officers also participated in the session, reinforcing a results-driven approach to agricultural service delivery in the sub-county.
The initiative reflects the county government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening agricultural productivity through innovation, coordination, and closer engagement with farmers at the community level.
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