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Kitui County Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele has urged farmers and consumers to exercise greater caution in the use and handling of pesticides and insecticides, warning that improper use can expose Kenyans to serious health risks.
Dr. Mbaya said pesticides and insecticides remain important in protecting crops from pests and diseases, but stressed that they must be used strictly according to the recommended instructions, particularly on food crops meant for human consumption.
Addressing members of the press at his office, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) cautioned farmers against ignoring instructions on pesticide application, observing that improper use of agricultural chemicals can leave harmful residues on food and potentially contribute to health complications.
He further urged residents to thoroughly wash farm produce such as sukuma wiki, cabbages and other vegetables before consumption as an additional precaution.
Dr. Mbaya also called on Kitui farmers to prepare their farms early ahead of the expected rains, urging them to take advantage of the forecast to improve food production and household food security.
He encouraged farmers to begin preparing their land in good time rather than waiting for the rains to start, saying early preparation would enable them to plant promptly once adequate rains are received.
At the same time, Dr. Mbaya cautioned residents living near riverbanks and other areas prone to flooding to relocate to higher ground as a precautionary measure, particularly with forecasts indicating increased rainfall.
The Agriculture and Livestock minister said residents should take the weather forecast seriously and put in place measures to protect their lives, livestock and property.
Dr. Mbaya has also invited farmers, residents of Kitui and Kenyans from across the country to attend the upcoming Kitui Agricultural Show and Investors Conference, scheduled to take place at Ithookwe Showground from September 24th to 26th.
He said the event will provide an important platform for farmers to acquire knowledge on modern agricultural practices, learn new technologies and interact with experts and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
Dr. Mbaya urged farmers to attend the agricultural show not merely as an exhibition but as an opportunity to gain practical knowledge that they can take back to their farms and implement to improve productivity.
He said the county government remains committed to supporting farmers and promoting modern, safe and sustainable agricultural practices that can enhance food production and improve the livelihoods of Kitui residents.
The minister called on farmers to embrace the opportunities presented by the agricultural show and investors conference, saying the knowledge and innovations showcased could play a significant role in transforming agriculture in Kitui County.
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