BY ANGELA R. KIURA
Farmers in Embu County are set to benefit from the distribution of 200 tonnes of certified maize seeds in a major push to enhance food production and household food security ahead of the rainy season.
The county government has launched the exercise targeting more than 100,000 farmers across 20 wards, with officials urging growers to plant immediately following assurances of stable and well-distributed rainfall.
Speaking during the launch in Kithimu Ward, Governor Cecily Mbarire said the programme aims to promote timely planting and improve crop yields at the onset of the rains.
“This initiative is meant to ensure our farmers plant on time and increase production. Agriculture remains a key pillar of our economy, and certified seeds will guarantee better yields and reduce the risk of crop failure,” she said.
Close to 15,000 farmers in Kithimu Ward have already received the seeds, with distribution expected to continue in the remaining wards over the coming days.
County Director of Agriculture Patrick Njeru assured farmers that weather conditions are favourable for planting, citing forecasts from the Kenya Meteorological Department confirming consistent rainfall across most parts of the county.
“The meteorological department has assured us that the rains will be reliable and well distributed. Farmers should not delay planting, especially staple and short-season crops,” Njeru said.
The advisory comes amid concerns from farmers who had adopted a cautious approach following previous seasons marked by erratic weather and seed losses.
Agriculture officials emphasized that timely planting will help farmers maximize yields and avoid losses linked to delayed sowing.
Farmers who turned up for the distribution welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism for improved harvests this season as the county intensifies efforts to strengthen food security.
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