New sorghum variety gives hope to farmers

Gadam sorghum was introduced to semi-arid regions of eastern Kenya as a way for farmers to improve their food security and earn some income from marginal land. The hardy, high-yielding sorghum variety has not only thrived in harsh conditions, it has won a place in the hearts – and plates – of local farmers.

The Government launched the sale of newly introduced Gadam Sorghum in the larger Mwingi district to East African Breweries Limited (EABL)

The six districts hived from the larger Mwingi district,(Mwingi central, Mwingi West, Tseikuru, Kyuso, Mwingi East and Migwani) which experienced food deficits in the last three seasons, last season the farmers in Kyuso in particular had bumper harvest and hence the Gadam sorghum buyers (Smart Logistics) have increased the buying price from Ksh 17 to Kshs 22 per Kilogram

To experience this Kyuso Maarifa attended a Field Day which was organized in Mr. Muthui Kanyili’s farm from Ndatani Sub-location, Kamusiliu location, Ngomeni division of Kyuso District. The field day was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture –Kyuso. The Field officer encouraged the farmers to grow drought resistance crops such as Gadam. He also encouraged people to share information whenever its available.

Mr. Muthui is a very successful farmer. Due to his effort Smart logistics company promised to deliver the sorghum threshing machine to his farm for sorghum threshing. Enjoy the picture of his effort.