By Omboki Monayo
Kirinyaga county, Kenya: Faith Nduta is on a mission to transform the agricultural landscape in Embu and Kirinyaga counties, using her deep passion for farming and expertise in crop nutrition to empower local rice farmers. As a Junior Sales Agronomist at Yara East Africa, Faith is a dedicated advocate for sustainable agriculture, Faith plays a pivotal role in helping farmers increase their yields while adopting environmentally friendly practices.
Through her work, Faith organizes field days and training sessions that benefit thousands of farmers each month. These sessions provide practical knowledge on soil health, fertilizer optimization, and modern farming techniques—enabling farmers to boost productivity, improve crop quality, and secure better livelihoods. Her focus on sustainability ensures that the gains are not only immediate but long-lasting, creating a more resilient farming community.
But Faith’s impact goes beyond the rice paddies. As a role model and inspiration for girls and women considering careers in agriculture, she is helping to break down gender barriers in an industry traditionally dominated by men. By demonstrating that agriculture can be a viable and impactful career, Faith is encouraging a new generation of women to contribute to creating a nature-positive, sustainable food future.
She was part of the 2024 Agitech Expo in Mwea, Embu County, that happened between October 11 and 12, which is set to be a landmark event in the agricultural calendar, bringing together farmers, agronomists, and industry leaders to explore innovative solutions that address the pressing challenges faced by the agricultural sector. This year, the expo will spotlight the critical role of agricultural technology in enhancing productivity, particularly for rice farmers in the region. Among the key players making waves at this event is Yara Kenya, a company that has emerged as the agricultural technology option of choice for many local farmers.
Mwea is known for its rich rice production, contributing significantly to Kenya’s food security. However, farmers in this region have been facing declining yields due to a combination of factors, including soil degradation and increased acidity caused by years of using highly acidifying fertilizers. Many farmers report yields that fall far short of their potential; for instance, Anne Njeri, a local rice farmer, laments that her harvests have dwindled over the years. “We used to harvest a lot from the farms. But now, many farms have stunted plants with yellow leaves,” she says.
The challenges are compounded by climate change, which has made farming increasingly unpredictable. As a result, many farmers have been losing hope and struggling to provide for their families. With around 130,925 farming households in Mwea, the need for effective solutions has never been more urgent.
Yara Kenya’s commitment to innovation stands out as a beacon of hope for these farmers through its innovative approach to crop nutrition and sustainable farming practices. The company has established Centers of Excellence across the country, where local farmers can access agronomic knowledge and tailored solutions designed to improve soil health and increase yields.
Yara’s products focus on less acidifying fertilizers that are rich in essential micronutrients. This shift is crucial for restoring soil pH levels and enhancing overall fertility. Kefa Maranga, Yara’s chief agronomist, emphasizes the importance of soil testing before applying fertilizers: “Farmers hardly do any tests before they start applying fertilizers,” he notes. By educating farmers on best practices—such as when and how to apply fertilizers—Yara is helping them make informed decisions that lead to better outcomes.
Yara’s commitment extends beyond immediate agricultural solutions; it encompasses a vision for sustainable farming practices that can withstand climate challenges. By promoting regenerative agriculture techniques—such as minimum tillage and intercropping—Yara aims to improve soil health while maximizing productivity.
The emphasis on sustainability aligns with Kenya’s broader agricultural goals and climate action plans. As more farmers adopt these innovative practices, there is potential not only to revive rice production in Mwea but also to set a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges.
As a catalyst for change, the Agitech Expo serves as a vital platform for showcasing these advancements in agricultural technology. With Yara Kenya leading the charge in innovation and education, rice farmers have access to the tools they need to overcome adversity and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
It is clear that events like these are essential for fostering collaboration between farmers and industry leaders. The future of agriculture in Mwea—and indeed across Kenya—depends on our ability to embrace innovation while prioritizing sustainability.
Yara Kenya’s efforts at the Agitech Expo exemplify a commitment not just to improving yields but also to empowering communities through knowledge-sharing and sustainable practices. As we gather in Mwea this year, we celebrate not only technological advancements but also the resilience of our farmers who are determined to secure a prosperous future for themselves and their families.
