Agricultural experts have raised alarms over soil degradation in Bungoma County, warning it poses a significant threat to the country’s food security. Recent soil sampling indicates that 70% of the soil in Bungoma lacks essential nutrients needed for crop growth, necessitating urgent action to improve soil health.
The sampling exercise, conducted by the Office Cherifien des Phosphates (OCP) organization in collaboration with the Bungoma County government, involved 2,020 farmers across the county. Caren Ayaibei from OCP emphasized the critical nature of the findings during a speech at the Red Cross grounds on Thursday, where the county’s soil testing results were unveiled.
“The soil sampling exercise aims to inform farmers about the types of crops they should plant and the optimal planting times,” Ayaibei said. She noted that the testing also included soil pH analysis, providing valuable data on the suitability of different crops.
One alarming discovery from the tests was the significant reduction in soil organic carbon levels, a clear indicator of deteriorating soil health. “The diminishing levels of soil organic carbon are a warning sign that the status of the soils is deteriorating,” Ayaibei explained.
The soil tests revealed a prevalent soil pH of 4.9, coupled with Boron levels falling below the required standards. Boron, a crucial micronutrient, is vital for plant nutrition, aiding in cell wall development, cell division, fruit and seed development, sugar transport, and hormone development.
Ayaibei strongly encouraged farmers to conduct regular soil tests, highlighting the direct link between soil health and crop yields. “Poor soil health is a threat to food security because with deteriorating soil health, farmers tend to get lower yields,” she emphasized.
OCP is committed to continuing its collaboration with local agricultural extension officers to reach 10,000 farmers. These farmers will receive training on the importance of soil testing and how to interpret and act on the results. “We are not going away after the launch of the soil sampling results. We are still around if farmers need to know the status of their soil,” Ayaibei assured. She also mentioned that soil samples would be collected from all 45 wards in the county for laboratory analysis.
Hebert Kibunguchy, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, reinforced the county’s commitment to soil testing. “The 2,020 soil testing samples were just the beginning. We are going to ensure that all farmers test their soils,” Kibunguchy stated.
The initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the soil degradation issue in Bungoma, aiming to enhance crop production and ensure food security for the county.
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