Nyeri County has recently bolstered its agricultural extension services by introducing a fleet of motorcycles for extension officers. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the capacity of these officers to deliver services more effectively across the county. The move is part of a broader strategy to improve agricultural productivity by ensuring that extension officers have better mobility, which will, in turn, allow them to reach more farmers, particularly those in remote areas.
The fleet consists of eight new Suzuki motorcycles, which will be added to the existing 16 motorcycles in the veterinary directorate and six in the fisheries directorate. These motorcycles will be used by agricultural extension officers who are responsible for providing farmers with guidance on modern farming techniques, including best practices for crop production, livestock management, and fish farming. The addition of these motorcycles will enable the officers to cover larger areas and visit more farmers regularly, ensuring that they receive up-to-date information and support.
The new motorcycles will also assist in the monitoring and supervision of the work of 210 agripreneurs extension officers who are expected to be hired soon. These new hires will further expand the reach of extension services, ensuring that every farmer, regardless of their location, has access to the knowledge and resources they need to improve their agricultural practices. The goal is to increase agricultural productivity and improve the livelihoods of farmers throughout Nyeri County.
Governor Mutahi Kahiga, during the flagging off ceremony of the motorcycles, expressed his appreciation for the work done by the 87 extension officers currently stationed across the county’s eight sub-counties. He emphasized that the county government is committed to enhancing agricultural outreach and ensuring that officers can access even the most remote areas. He also noted that more motorcycles would be purchased in the future to further improve service delivery.
The introduction of motorcycles is expected to have a significant impact on agricultural development in Nyeri County. By improving the mobility of extension officers, the county is ensuring that farmers receive timely and relevant advice on farming practices. This will help farmers adopt modern techniques that can lead to higher yields and better-quality produce, ultimately contributing to the overall growth of the agricultural sector in the region.
In addition to providing technical assistance, extension officers also play a crucial role in monitoring the implementation of government agricultural programs, advising on market trends, and helping farmers access government subsidies and loans. With the new motorcycles, they will be able to visit more farmers, conduct follow-ups, and offer more personalized support.
The county’s initiative also highlights the importance of infrastructure and mobility in the success of agricultural extension services. In rural areas where roads can be difficult to navigate, motorcycles offer a practical and efficient means of transportation for extension officers. This is especially important in Nyeri County, where farming is a key economic activity, and access to information and support is critical to improving productivity and ensuring food security.
Overall, the provision of motorcycles for extension officers in Nyeri County is a positive step towards enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting farmers in their efforts to adopt modern farming techniques. The initiative reflects the county government’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and improving the livelihoods of its people.
