BUNGOMA, Kenya (Prime Africa) — Farmers in the Western region have been encouraged to adopt drought-resistant and climate-smart seed varieties as part of a wider strategy to combat the effects of climate change and enhance agricultural productivity.
Speaking at Kibabii University in Bungoma County during the Agribusiness Expo and Trade Symposium themed “Climate Smart Technologies and Practices for Sustainable Food Systems,” Eastern Africa Grains Council (EAGC) Executive Director Gerald Masila said one of the key highlights of the exhibition was the display of innovative solutions tailored to climate change, including drought-tolerant seeds and modern agronomic practices.
Masila noted that demonstration plots set up at the university showcased how different seed varieties respond under limited water supply.
“When you walk through our demonstration plots, you notice that some were deliberately stressed, and you can compare their performance under low water conditions,” he said.
He emphasized that climate resilience must begin from the seed selection stage, extending to soil management, minimum tillage, conservation agriculture and improved agronomy.
“We are also showcasing technologies addressing climate change such as water-harvesting solutions and innovations that help minimize evapotranspiration,” he added.
The EAGC has partnered with several universities in the region to set up demonstration plots that allow farmers and agriculture students to interact with new technologies designed to increase farm output.
Masila explained that the council—whose membership comprises grain traders, warehouse operators, processors and other value chain actors—aims to ensure farmers can access clear information on seeds, pest and disease control, and post-harvest handling.
“At the demonstration plots here at Kibabii University, we are showing technologies and seeds that are drought-resistant, which we encourage farmers to consider,” he said.
He noted that the expo exposed farmers to best practices in seed selection, soil preparation, fertilization, pest management and post-harvest technologies.
“With climate change challenges, farmers will now understand the most suitable seeds for their agro-ecological zones, and the certified suppliers are available right here at the exhibition arena,” he noted.
In an effort to mitigate climate change impacts, the EAGC is partnering with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to restore the Mt. Elgon ecosystem. Masila said the expo had already reached more than 2,000 farmers.
“Our mission is that by the end of this expo, farmers will walk away with valuable knowledge on what seeds to select and how to improve their yields,” he stated, reaffirming that agriculture remains a key source of livelihood for thousands of households in the value chain.
He added that demonstration plots showcased both organic and conventional farming techniques.
“Some plots demonstrate organic farming with organic fertilizers and integrated pest management. Even with 100 percent organic systems, farmers may still need to supplement nutrients using suitable synthetic fertilizers,” he observed.
Felix Muchieka, an agriculture student at Kibabii University, praised the partnership with EAGC, saying the expo offered a practical learning experience.
“Through this expo, we have learnt farming technologies that can help mitigate climate change effects,” he said, urging youth to engage in agriculture.
Margaret Juma, a local farmer, said the knowledge gained at the expo would transform her yields.
“Previously I harvested one sack of maize from an acre, but now I have learnt new technologies and seed selection that can boost my output,” she said.
Juma admitted that using traditional recycled seeds had contributed to her poor harvests.
“From now on, I will buy certified drought-resistant seeds for better performance,” she added.
The expo featured a wide range of innovations and practical solutions for farmers and agribusiness players, including:
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Climate-smart seed varieties
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Crop demonstration plots
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Post-harvest handling technologies
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Value-addition innovations
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Modern agri-machinery
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Livestock and poultry technologies
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Digital platforms for input supply, aggregation and structured grain marketing
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B2B forums connecting farmers to service providers
The event underscored the role of technology and climate-smart innovations in transforming farming in Western Kenya and building resilience in the face of changing weather patterns.
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