KALRO Transforms Agricultural Access with Digital Innovations in Kenya

KALRO has digitized its agricultural innovations for easier farmer access via digital platforms. This strategy addresses inefficiencies in extension services and aims to enhance productivity amid climate change challenges. During CGIAR Science Week, KALRO will showcase technologies that support climate-smart farming and improve food security.

The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) has digitized its agricultural innovations, facilitating easy access for farmers via digital platforms. This initiative aims to address the shortcomings of underperforming extension officers by providing essential information on climate-smart practices, improved seed varieties, and modern pest management techniques. “For us to help our farmers, we have ventured digitizing all our innovations so that they are easily accessible on digital platforms,” stated Dr. Eliud Kireger, KALRO’s Director General.

Dr. Kireger emphasized the necessity of digitizing these technologies given that climate change poses significant challenges to small-scale farmers. He also noted that KALRO will showcase these innovations during the CGIAR Science Week in April, highlighting both local and international technologies ready for farmer implementation. “We will be showcasing the technologies that we have developed both within and elsewhere,” he added.

Moreover, Dr. Kireger indicated that these innovations are designed to demonstrate how science can enhance productivity while preserving natural resources. He acknowledged agriculture’s dual role in both contributing to carbon emissions and sequestering carbon through soil and vegetation. “Right now, we are painting agriculture as the emitter of 37%, which is true, but at the same time we are sequestering carbon… So, we need to bring that scientific knowledge to bring better awareness,” he urged.

Nairobi’s selection as the host city for the science week reflects its growing recognition as a nexus for agricultural research in Africa. Dr. Kireger noted that partners will present effective agricultural transformation models and technologies poised for regional application. “Other partners are going to showcase models in agricultural transformation that have worked elsewhere,” he emphasized.

Funding for research remains a challenge; KALRO collaborates with entities like CGIAR to secure the necessary resources. “We form joint partnerships, joint proposals, because most of the technologies that are developed are not applicable to Kenya only,” Dr. Kireger explained, emphasizing the potential benefits across sub-Saharan Africa.

He pointed out the impact of drought-resistant agricultural technologies on farmers and the economy, linking agricultural performance directly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) fluctuations. During the science week, KALRO plans to present a range of climate-smart technologies, including crops and breeds suited for arid regions. “You are going to see technologies for mitigating new pests and diseases that have come with climate change,” he assured.

The technologies introduced will cater to small- and medium-scale farmers, addressing the disparity in access experienced by larger operations. Dr. Kireger advocated for the need for farmers to achieve access to quality seeds and agricultural inputs, which would significantly enhance productivity. He expressed concern over the current high costs of seeds and inputs, urging government interventions.

Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, Executive Managing Director of CGIAR, remarked on the necessity of fostering a vibrant local manufacturing environment for agricultural innovation. “We need to create an innovation and a vibrant environment for innovation, so that the Small Micro Enterprises can thrive locally,” she stated. She introduced the concept of climate-smart villages combining various sustainable practices to enhance farmers’ productivity.

Dr. Kireger noted the increasing receptiveness of farmers to modern farming technologies, particularly during planting seasons when demand for quality seeds surges. “Our farmers have become very receptive to modern farming technologies. That’s why during the planting season, especially for maize and beans, farmers are scrambling for certified seeds,” he concluded.

KALRO’s digitization of agricultural technologies aims to empower farmers in Kenya by enhancing access to critical information. This initiative addresses the challenges posed by climate change while promoting food security through innovative practices. The upcoming CGIAR Science Week presents an opportunity to showcase these advancements, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a leader in agricultural research in Africa.

Original Source: africasciencenews.org