By Ruth Magak
The County Government of Nakuru has teamed up with the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) and the Centre for Behaviour Change and Communication (CBCC) to launch an initiative aimed at promoting safer and more sustainable farming practices in the region.
The campaign aims to reduce the negative effects of pesticides on human and animal health, as well as the environment, by providing farmers with access to safer and more affordable alternatives to pesticides, reliable technical sources, and knowledge on safe pesticide use to minimize health risks.
To achieve this goal, the initiative introduces farmers to the Crop Sprayer App, which is now available for download on Android phones. The app helps farmers calculate the amount of pesticide needed when treating crops, reducing the risk of overuse and toxic exposure.
A recent field visit conducted by CABI and the County Government found that many small-scale farmers in the region lack knowledge on best pest management practices when combating emerging plant health threats. As a result, harmful pesticides are used in efforts to avoid crop loss, with limited awareness of the implications of these chemicals. The campaign aims to address this issue by providing farmers with knowledge and access to safer alternatives to pesticides.
The risks associated with the use of harmful pesticides are significant, including potential negative impacts on human and animal health and the environment. Exposure to harmful chemicals can lead to a range of health issues, such as respiratory problems, skin irritation, and chronic diseases. The production of safe, pesticide-free produce for the market is a critical aspect of the initiative.
The County Government of Nakuru hopes that the initiative will help farmers cope better with emerging plant health threats and improve farm productivity. By promoting safer and more sustainable farming practices, the campaign seeks to empower farmers to reduce the negative effects of pesticides in the county. The county government is confident that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the initiative will have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the people of Nakuru County.
