Farmers in Naivasha are challenging the youth to utilise the Uwezo and Youth funds and engage in farming.
Peter Mwaniki, a successful farmer in his 50s, called on the youths to drop the notion that farming is an occupation for old people.
Mwaniki, a farmer for 29 years in Kihoto, argued that investing in farming will create jobs for the unemployed youths in the country.
“I have been a farmer for 29 years and I have seen a lot of young people waste their time and money trying to chase a huge salary. In the end, they get stuck in their comfort zones, not ready to think positively on other choices like farming.
He was speaking at a youth forum in Kihoto, where he claimed that agribusiness in the area was picking up.
Mwaniki grows spinach, sukuma wiki (kales) and tomatoes along the shores of Lake Naivasha.
He added that through his efforts and commitment, he has been able to rent out part of his land to three other farmers, who are all aged.
Mwaniki pledged his commitment to help the youths who are interested by giving them free advice. He said that if need be, he would also provide seedlings to the youth to start their farming business.
“We encourage them to venture into serious farming. The youth can actually make more money and gain satisfaction than in full time employment,” he added.