Over 20 farmers feted in Kenya's National Farmers Awards Scheme

At least 24 farmers from across the country were feted in this year's Annual National Farmers Awards Scheme.

The scheme, which is an initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries and Elgon Kenya Limited, is part of the country's efforts to front agriculture as a business venture.

Principal Secretary Sicily Kariuki who graced the event held in Nairobi on Friday restated the government's commitment in supporting farmers.

She said agriculture was key to the realisation of Vision 2030 and in achieving zero hunger as which one of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets.

Ms Kariuki said the government has continued to provide subsidized fertilizers to farmers saying that it has spent Sh4 billion in providing the farm input.

"The government has also constructed 13 storage facilities in maize growing areas," she added.

Kariuki said it was time farmers used modern technology to enhance quality and quantity of farm produce.

Speaking during the event BASF East Africa managing director Carlos Amengual said farming is the biggest contributor of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 25 per cent.

He said it also employs 60 per cent of the population as well as being the main economic activity in the rural areas.

James Murimi who emerged position one in Small Scale Farmer Fully Commercialised category said agriculture pays but only through the use of modern technology.

Mr Murimi who started rearing cows for milk in 2011 with only four cows currently has 200 animals with each lactating cow producing an average of 25 litres of milk per day.

This year's award which attracted thousands of entries also saw entries from persons with disabilities practising agriculture awarded.