Kagwe urges farmers to embrace technology in agriculture

Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe. [File, Courtesy]

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has urged farmers to leverage technology in agricultural practices to boost production.

Speaking on Thursday, March 20, in Malindi, Kagwe emphasised the Ministry's commitment to engaging farmers in adopting new technological practices.

"There are emerging technologies in the agricultural sector all over the world, and part of the discussion is to make sure that Kenya is not left behind in those discussions," Kagwe said.

He noted that incorporating technology would help overcome barriers to entry in marketing and value addition, as well as deliver efficient, transparent, and last-mile extension services at scale.

According to Kagwe, the Ministry plans to register farmers to start using technology in areas such as soil analysis and throughout the farming season, reaffirming the government's efforts to provide affordable and accessible inputs.

Kagwe expressed his satisfaction with how youth have recently embraced agricultural practices in the country.

"One of the things that you might be surprised by is that the Gen Z population is not shying away from agriculture. That's a myth. The truth of the matter is that young people are aggressively engaging themselves now in agriculture, and I can tell you that in the couple of months, I have been in this ministry, most of the people who have come to my office to discuss agriculture are not elderly people," he said.

He added that many youths have been coming up with innovative agricultural ideas aimed at enhancing farming activities.

The CS revealed plans to engage the Ministry of Education to align the future of young farmers and boost food security and production.