This archive report was first published on 12 May 2020.
Laikipia and Nyandarua counties have witnessed a significant shift in farming practices, with many farmers abandoning maize cultivation in favor of oat farming.
According to farmers, oat farming offers higher returns and is less labor-intensive compared to maize farming. A 70 Kg bag of oat seed costs between Sh500 and 4,500, while a bail of the product retails at Sh400.
Francis Thairu, a farmer in Shamata, notes that oat farming has the potential to boost the county's earnings and food production. 'Oats grown on a quarter of an acre can feed a single dairy animal for one hundred days,' he says.
Thairu also highlights the benefits of oat farming, stating that an acre of potatoes in the region earns farmers an average of Sh40,000, which is way too low compared to inputs and labor costs. 'A bag of oats goes for an average of Sh4,000 with an acre having the potential to yield 30 bags,' he adds.
George Ndung'u, another farmer, emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of oat farming, stating that it does not require artificial fertilizers but rather manure.
Ol Kalou Sub County livestock production officer Samuel Kariuki notes that the climate in the region is favorable for oat farming, which performs well in high-altitude areas of 1,200 meters above sea level.
According to Kariuki, potato farming, which was once a dominant agricultural activity in the region, is no longer profitable due to excess rainfall and frost. Oats, on the other hand, are very resistant to adverse weather conditions.
Nyandarua County Executive for Agriculture, Dr. James Karitu, urges farmers to embrace value addition in oat farming to earn more. 'The crop is the best crop to rotate with potatoes as it is a very great quality and high-yielding fodder,' he says.
Laikipia County has also seen a significant uptake of oat farming, with farmers in parts of Rumuruti, Pesi, Igwamiti, Marmanet, and Gatundia in Laikipia West taking up the enterprise.
