More farmers embrace customised fertilisers

Trans Nzoia Governor patrick Khaemba distributing Mavuno fertilisers to maize farmers at Makutano in Cherangany. The non-acidic fertiliser has helped boost maize production. [PHOTO: JACOB NG‘ETICH/STANDARD]

Trans Nzoia, Kenya: Kennedy Sawenja, a farmer from Kiminini Constituency had almost given up on planting maize because of the dwindling produce each year.

He would get a paltry eight bags from an acre, down from 25 the family used to harvest several years back. This was until the family started using Mavuno fertiliser in their farm.

"Maize production in this area had really gone down significantly. Quite a number of farmers totally stopped maize farming to venture into other crops," said Mr Sawenja.

The father of four says he is no longer in doubt of continuing to grow the country's staple food after discovering the new customised fertiliser.

"I was surprised that my production doubled in a year. Now, I have resolved to continue planting maize," said Sawenja.

Nominated Member of the County Assembly Magdalene Chemutai from Kwanza sub-county notes that more farmers expect better yields this year.

BUMPER YIELDS

According to Governor Patrick Khaemba, the non-acidic fertiliser was manufactured to suit Trans Nzoia county's soil requirements after extensive research.

He encouraged more farmers to use Mavuno fertilisers to boost their yields.

"We have been advising farmers to embrace Mavuno because it will enrich the soil, unlike the DAP, which has been cited to increase soil acidity after prolonged use," said the governor.

The governor said last year, the county government supplied farmers with 29,959 bags of the fertilizer for planting and 25,994 bags for top dressing.

"Cost of planting an acre of land declined from Sh10,700 to Sh6,350 last year. We have an additional order of 36,000 bags, to be distributed to farmers for the 2015 planting season," said Khaemba.