Written by Faith Milgo and Mercy Kihugu
Farmers across Nakuru County are increasingly embracing avocado and mango farming following the County Government’s ongoing distribution of fruit tree seedlings to promote climate-smart agriculture and improve household incomes.
The program, being implemented through the Department of Agriculture, has reached Subukia, Bahati, Rongai, Naivasha and Gilgil Sub-counties. County officials say the initiative is designed to encourage farmers to diversify from traditional crops and venture into high-value fruit farming that offers long-term economic and environmental benefits.
Speaking during the distribution exercise in Subukia Sub-county, Infrastructure CECM Eng. Michael Kamau said the county government, under the leadership of Governor Susan Kihika, remains committed to supporting farmers through agricultural empowerment programs that enhance food production and strengthen local economies.
Agriculture Chief Officer Eng. Margaret Kinyanjui urged beneficiaries to take proper care of the seedlings to ensure high survival rates and better yields in the future. She emphasised the importance of correct planting methods, regular watering, fencing, and protection against pests and livestock destruction.
County officials noted that fruit farming offers farmers an opportunity to build resilience to changing weather patterns while creating alternative income streams. They added that avocado farming also contributes to environmental conservation through improved soil protection and tree cover.
Among the beneficiaries was Wesley Lang’at, a maize farmer from Kabazi Ward, who welcomed the initiative as a timely intervention to diversify his farming activities. Lang’at observed that avocado farming would complement maize production and cushion his family against losses from unpredictable weather.
Farmers who benefited from the exercise praised the county government for investing in programmes that directly support rural livelihoods, environmental sustainability, and agricultural transformation across Nakuru County.
Josiah Yegon, an avocado farmer from Soin Ward, welcomed the support, noting that the seedlings will help him expand his orchard and boost production.
“Avocado farming has become a reliable source of income for my family. Receiving these seedlings means I can increase production and improve my earnings in the coming years,” said Kibet.
For Priscah Kimeli, a first-time fruit tree farmer from Visoi Ward, the exercise marked the beginning of a new journey in agriculture.
“I have never planted fruit trees before, but today I am encouraged to start. I am looking forward to learning and benefiting from avocado and mango farming in the future,” she said.