This archive report was first published on 3 October 2019.
On October 3, 2019, Trans Nzoia Governor Patrick Khaemba launched a mobile grain drier at Kiminini Catholic Church, marking the beginning of a new initiative to combat post-harvest losses in the region.
The county government's investment of Sh27 million in three mobile grain dryers aims to assist farmers in reducing moisture content and minimizing losses for those who wish to store their produce for sale in the future.
According to Governor Khaemba, the dryers have the capacity to dry up to 1,000 bags of 90kg per day, providing a vital solution to the challenges faced by farmers in the region.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Khaemba emphasized the importance of using mobile grain dryers to prevent the rotting of harvests, which is imminent due to the ongoing rains.
“My government has procured these dryers to help farmers dry their crops to the required moisture content,” said Governor Khaemba.
Additionally, the county government has distributed cheques worth Sh19 million to support farmers in diversifying their crops.
Meanwhile, in Uasin Gishu County, farmers are gearing up to harvest wheat, despite the ongoing rains, which they hope will subside soon.
Tom Korgoren, a farmer in Uasin Gishu, noted that the majority of farmers in the region are small-scale and sell their produce to millers or traders immediately after harvesting, but prices are still low.
