KALRO has digitalized its agricultural technologies to improve farmer access through mobile platforms. Dr. Eliud Kireger highlighted these efforts during the CGIAR Science Week announcement, emphasizing the importance of addressing climate change challenges. The science week will showcase innovations that contribute to food security and sustainable agricultural practices while advocating for affordable farming inputs.
The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has digitalized its agricultural innovations to facilitate easier access for farmers through digital and mobile platforms. During a briefing in Nairobi ahead of the CGIAR Science Week, Dr. Eliud Kireger, Director General of KALRO, stated the objective is to address deficiencies in extension services, providing farmers with essential information on climate-smart farming practices, improved seeds, and modern pest management strategies.
Dr. Kireger emphasized the importance of digitizing these technologies due to climate change, which significantly affects smallholder farmers. The CGIAR Science Week, scheduled for April, will feature local and international agricultural innovations, aimed at improving food and nutrition security. KALRO’s exhibition will highlight how scientific advancements can enhance production sustainably while conserving natural resources.
Nairobi’s selection as the venue for Science Week underscores Kenya’s status as a leader in agricultural research in Africa. Various partners will present successful agricultural transformation models, ready-to-adopt technologies, and innovative management practices. Dr. Kireger mentioned that research collaborations with organizations like CGIAR are essential for securing funding and developing relevant technologies applicable across sub-Saharan Africa.
Drought-tolerant climate technologies are crucial for the agricultural economy, directly influencing farmers’ productivity and economic stability. Dr. Kireger noted that ongoing challenges, such as climate change, impede smallholder access to these innovations. The Science Week will showcase technologies aimed at improving resilience, including climate-smart crops and real-time agronomic data applicable to small- to medium-scale farmers.
Dr. Kireger called for government initiatives to ensure affordable access to seeds, pesticides, and herbicides. Dr. Ismahane Elouafi of CGIAR stressed the need for innovation and local manufacturing environments to benefit small micro-enterprises, especially in seed production and agricultural inputs. KALRO has also initiated climate-smart villages that integrate various sustainable farming practices to enhance farmers’ productivity and income.
Overall, the article outlines how KALRO’s digital initiatives and collaborative efforts aim to provide farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge to adapt to climate challenges and improve agricultural outputs, ensuring food security in Kenya.
In summary, KALRO’s initiative to digitize agricultural technologies aims to increase farmer accessibility and resilience against climate change. The participation in the CGIAR Science Week highlights Kenya’s leadership in agricultural research, showcasing innovative technologies and practices. Collaborations with organizations like CGIAR aim to broaden the reach of useful agricultural solutions across sub-Saharan Africa. Ensuring affordability of agricultural inputs remains a key area for governmental focus to enhance productivity and food security.
Original Source: africasciencenews.org
