Machakos County Government has launched the distribution of 40 tonnes of certified seeds to 20,000 vulnerable households in a renewed effort to boost food production and strengthen food security as the rainy season begins.

Governor Wavinya Ndeti announced the initiative during the launch of the County Certified Seed Distribution Programme at Mbiuni Market in Mwala Sub-county, saying the programme would cover an estimated 5,150 acres and is projected to produce 52,000 bags of food grains.

“Today, we are releasing 40 tonnes of certified seeds targeting 20,000 vulnerable households countywide. This will cover 5,150 acres and is projected to yield 52,000 bags of food grains, directly safeguarding our county’s food security,” said Wavinya.

She said the distribution was part of broader efforts to support farmers with quality agricultural inputs and encourage timely planting following the onset of the rains.

Certified seeds are known to offer farmers several advantages, including higher germination rates, improved crop establishment, better yields and uniform crop maturity.

Wavinya noted that depending on the variety, they can also provide greater tolerance to certain crop diseases and harsh weather conditions, helping farmers minimise losses and improve household incomes.

The Governor further disclosed that the County, in partnership with the National Government through the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), had digitised more than 230,000 farmers, to facilitate access to subsidised agricultural inputs.

“In partnership with the National Government through NCPB depots, over 230,000 Machakos farmers are now digitised and accessing subsidised inputs. If you are not yet registered, I urge you to visit our agricultural extension officers in the field immediately, to get enrolled,” she emphasized.

Wavinya also outlined other interventions aimed at improving agricultural productivity, including improved access to water, livestock production support, Artificial Insemination services, poultry development, livestock vaccination and strengthened agricultural extension services across all wards.

She attributed the County’s progress in food production to the interventions, noting that Machakos was ranked sixth nationally in maize production in 2024 by the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA).

“These interventions have improved food security in the County, leading to Machakos being ranked sixth nationally in maize production in 2024 by the Agriculture and Food Authority,” she said.

Caroline Gatakaa, a beneficiary of an earlier Phase of the county’s certified seed distribution programme, welcomed the initiative, saying the seeds she received had improved her farm’s productivity and enabled her to harvest more.

She commended the county for supporting small-scale farmers through the provision of quality seeds, urging the government to sustain the programme to enable more households to increase production and improve their livelihoods.

As the rains begin, farmers have been encouraged to plant early, follow recommended agronomic practices and seek guidance from agricultural extension officers to maximise the benefits of certified seeds and improve harvests.

By Anne Kangero and William Peshut