The training saw more than 30 youths across from across Garissa County engage in a three-hour theory session at the Government Guest Hall and an additional three hours of practical training at the Agricultural Training Centre. The teaching was assisted by the agronomists.
Dry area
Garissa being a dry area in North Eastern Province where pastoralism has been the main activity, the occasion offered not only the youth but also grown ups an opportunity to see for themselves relative simplicity of drip irrigation and greenhouse farming, implemented using hybrid seeds, soluble fertilisers and environmentally friendly agro-chemicals.
The quality of produce at the demonstration plots which included cabbages, tomatoes, kales, onions, cucumber and spinach surprised older farmers who had tried their hand at farming without success.
Modern farming
“Such crops have never been harvested in this area, simply because it is dry,” observed Adbulahi Abdikarim, one of those who benefited from the training.Although the training was meant for the youth, older residents also requested to be included in the training saying they too want to learn about the new and modern farming skills. “This technology and practice works well even in dry conditions. If we embrace and follow it well, there would be no hunger and poverty in North Eastern Province,” says Fatuma Najma.
Source: standardmedia.co.ke