Why Soil Testing Could Transform Kenya’s Food Security Agenda
By Kipkorir Tarus, DevReporter, Trans Nzoia County
Key Highlights
Many farmers in Kenya are unaware of the importance of soil testing and believe it to be too costly.
Soil testing assesses nutrient levels, pH, crop suitability, and provides soil-specific fertilizer recommendations.
The government, through Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), is currently testing and...
Chang’aa: The Illicit Brew Tied to Survival and Struggle in Busia County
By Philip Barasa, DevReporter, Busia County
Key Highlights
Rising unemployment among youth has fuelled a surge in changaa consumption, as many turn to cheap alcohol to escape boredom and hopelessness.
Local women speak out on how changaa has torn families apart, contributing to domestic violence and neglect within households.
Residents accuse some law enforcement...
North Rift Livestock Farmers Oppose Mass Vaccination of Animals Against Diseases
By Emanuel Kipkorir Tarus, DevReporter, Trans Nzoia County
Key highlights
Government targets 22 million cattle, 50 million goats and sheep for vaccination
Vaccination meant to control transboundary animal diseases, enhance animal productivity
Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI) manufactures vaccines to be used
Farmers, Kenya Veterinary Association oppose mass vaccination
President William Ruto insists the...
How Culture is Influencing Fight Against Gender-Based Violence in Trans Nzoia County
By Sefu Sabila, DevReporter, Trans Nzoia County
In 2024, cases of femicide in Kenya saw a dramatic increase, with nearly 150 women killed between August and November.
Action groups and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) are urging President William Ruto to declare femicide a national disaster.
In addition to economic challenges contributing to...
Elderly Residents From Maragua Venture Into Fish Farming
By Rebecca Wangari, DevReporter, Murang’a County
Key Highlights
Fish farming in Murang’a County
High cost of fish feed has been a major challenge to the farmers
The county assembly has approved a budgetary allocation to facilitate revamping of the venture
Faced with economic hardship and dwindling financial support, a group of elderly residents in Maragua,...
How the Hairdressing Business is Changing lives in Utawala
By Collins Ochieng, DevReporter, Nairobi County
Key Highlight
Hairdressing skills for Kenyan youth
Licensing for hairdressing business
Hairdressing as a contributor to Kenya’s Economy
Hairdressing as a way of earning a living
In every Kenyan county, there are different business activities, from the sale of electronic devices, household items and vegetables, to transport services. Hairdressing...
Rural Communities Enjoy Fruits of the Shamba System
By Emanuel Kipkorir Tarus, DevReporter, Trans Nzoia County
Key highlights
Shamba system introduced by colonial government
It aims to afforest degraded plantations
One has to be a member of CFA to be allocated a forest plot
It is not applicable in indigenous forests
It is implemented by the Kenya Forest...
Agriculture in Trans Nzoia in Limbo, as Youth Opt for Jua kali Sector
By Sefu Sabila, DevReporter, Trans Nzoia
Key Highlights
There is a threat to the agricultural sector in Trans Nzoia, as youth are moving to the Jua Kali sector
According to the youth, lack of opportunities and jobs is among the challenges leading to their mass movement from Agriculture
This move threatens the sector
Agronomist...