Millet farmers in Busia County have been urged to adopt improved, climate-resilient seed varieties to enhance yields and contribute to regional food security. This call for change was highlighted during a field visit to millet farmers in Asing’e, Teso South Sub-county, where local agricultural experts emphasized the importance of transitioning to modern farming practices and certified seed varieties.
Emmanuel Eshitemi, an official from the Centre for Behaviour Change and Communication (CBCC), stressed the significance of the new seed varieties in boosting productivity and combating the effects of climate change. He explained that traditional millet varieties are often slow to mature and produce low yields, making them less viable in the face of unpredictable weather patterns. The newly developed seeds, however, are drought-tolerant and adaptable to various weather conditions, ensuring farmers can continue to grow millet despite climate challenges.
Eshitemi further highlighted the short growth cycle of the improved seed varieties, which take only about three months to mature, making them more efficient for farmers. He also pointed out that many farmers are unaware of the implications of climate change on agriculture, which is why there is a need for climate-resilient seeds. By using these new seeds, farmers can minimize losses caused by adverse weather conditions. However, Eshitemi also mentioned that these seeds can only be recycled twice before farmers are encouraged to acquire fresh varieties to maintain the integrity of the crop and yield.
The CBCC, in collaboration with the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), is working to ensure that these improved seeds meet the necessary quality standards and are readily available to farmers. Eshitemi noted that the initiative, which is currently targeting Teso South, aims to reach all millet farmers in Busia County.
The adoption of these new millet varieties is already showing promising results. Farmers who have switched to the improved varieties have reported increased yields and improved farming efficiency. One such farmer, Marygoret Omodia, shared her success story, stating that by following modern planting techniques and using the new seeds, she has seen a remarkable increase in her harvest. Omodia explained that with the improved seeds, she can harvest approximately 10 bags of 90kg per acre, a significant improvement from previous yields. She encouraged other millet farmers to embrace these new farming methods, as they have the potential to boost millet production in the county.
The nutritional value of millet was also highlighted by Omodia, who pointed out that it is a beneficial crop, especially for individuals with diabetes. Millet is also used to make nutritious porridge for children, adding to its appeal as a valuable food source.
Another farmer, Mary Awala, reported that the improved seed varieties have allowed her to plant up to three times a year through crop rotation. Traditionally, millet took about six months to mature, but with the new varieties, it takes only three months. This increased productivity has allowed Awala to enhance her livelihood by generating additional income, which she uses to support her family, including paying school fees for her children.
Awala also noted that the new farming methods, including planting millet in rows, have made weeding much easier compared to the traditional random planting methods. This shift in approach has made the overall farming process more manageable and efficient.
As part of the ongoing initiative, improved millet varieties such as U-15/Maridadi, Kakamega Wimbi 2, and Kakamega Wimbi 3 are available at Youth and Women Quality Centres in Busia. These efforts are set to empower local farmers, increase millet production, and contribute to the overall improvement of food security in Busia County and beyond.
