In Nakuru County, the government is advocating for the diversification of food crops to counter climate change impacts, enhance livelihoods, and improve living standards. Leonard Bor, the Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries County Executive Committee Member, highlighted the shift towards non-traditional crops as a strategy to boost agricultural productivity, stabilize output, and address food insecurity.
Diversification, according to Bor, reduces risk by providing a safeguard against adverse weather, thereby protecting farmers' investments. It also broadens market options and fulfills household nutritional needs. Crop diversification is seen as an effective measure against pests like fall army worms. The county aims to direct focus towards international markets, moving away from local middlemen who purchase produce at low prices. Avocados and macadamias are identified as key crops for diversification, alongside traditional ones like coffee and potatoes, with avocados specifically noted for their potential as a significant income source for farmers.
Source: kenyanews.go.ke