The County Government of Kitui has continued to intensify efforts aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture after Agriculture and Livestock CECM Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele praised a local farmer for successfully embracing modern irrigation farming to boost food production and household income.
Dr. Kimwele, accompanied by Chief Officer for Agriculture Madam Gladys Kivoto, on Tuesday visited the 10-acre farm belonging to Esther Musili, where she is undertaking large-scale tomato and maize farming through irrigated agriculture.
The farm visit formed part of the county’s ongoing agricultural outreach programme aimed at encouraging farmers to adopt innovative and commercially viable farming methods capable of thriving even in semi-arid regions such as Kitui.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Kimwele described Esther’s farm as a model of modern agricultural success, saying her dedication and proper farm management had demonstrated that farming can become a profitable venture when supported by technology and irrigation.
He commended the farmer for embracing the use of fertiliser to improve crop yields and herbicides to effectively manage weeds, noting that the approach has helped lower labour costs while increasing productivity.
“Farmers should begin embracing agriculture as a business. What Esther has achieved here is a clear demonstration that irrigation and modern farming technologies can transform livelihoods and strengthen food security in our county,” said Dr. Kimwele.
Chief Officer Gladys Kivoto also encouraged farmers across Kitui to adopt climate-smart farming practices to cushion themselves against unpredictable weather patterns and low agricultural yields caused by prolonged droughts.
She reiterated the county government’s commitment to supporting farmers through extension services, training programmes, and promotion of sustainable farming technologies aimed at improving food production and economic empowerment.
The county agriculture officials further applauded Esther Musili for allowing her farm to serve as a demonstration site where other farmers can learn practical skills and share knowledge on best farming practices.
With irrigation farming increasingly gaining momentum in Kitui, county officials believe more farmers can transition from subsistence farming to commercial production and improve their incomes while enhancing food security across the region.
Esther’s success story is now being viewed as an inspiration to many local farmers seeking to venture into modern agriculture despite the challenges posed by climate change and erratic rainfall patterns in the county.
