Nyandarua Governor Dr. Moses Kiarie Badilisha has called on county residents to embrace fruit-trees’ farming as a dual strategy to boost household incomes and nutrition, and combat the adverse effects of climate change.
Speaking during a visit to Karonji Farm, a private venture specializing in tree fruit farming with the support of the devolved government, Governor Badilisha emphasized the untapped potential in fruit production, particularly avocados and apples – which are doing well in Nyandarua, and registering high demand both locally and internationally.
He revealed that the County Government is continuously developing partnerships to support contract farming arrangements for select crop varieties in order to ensure market and price guarantees. Under this initiative, farmers would receive fruit-tree seedlings for free and organizing them under cooperative societies.
Governor Badilisha further noted that recent county-led initiatives in apple farming were already yielding positive results. “We are approaching 50 acres of apple plantations across Nyandarua, a clear indication that our farmers are embracing this shift,” he said.
He underscored the environmental benefits of fruit-trees’ growing, citing its contribution to soil conservation, carbon absorption, and sustainable land use.
Esther Karonji, the proprietor of the farm, echoed the governor’s sentiments, urging local farmers to seize the opportunity. “I am already reaping big from avocado farming. It’s a profitable venture and I encourage others to take it up,” she said.
The county government’s push for climate-smart agriculture and agribusiness aligns with national and global calls for sustainable farming practices that can withstand the impacts of climate change while improving food security and livelihoods.
