Maize farming is one of the things that mark every Kalenjin household. However, the prospects of the crop are uncertain. Farmers have resorted to growing other crops to mitigate the losses, especially after maize harvesting.
Planting cabbages
Maize is harvested around October, latest November in most regions in Uasin Gishu. Farmers take this time to plant cabbages before the next year’s maize planting season. Cabbages fetch good prices between February and May. The crop requires plenty of water, and it is only those close to a water source that will reap big from planting it.
Planting onions
Onions have a short lifespan. It takes only four months to harvest. This crop can be planted and harvested in time for the next maize season. Farmers use this period to maximise on their farms. Onions fetch better prices in the market compared to maize. Their short period would even be a perfect replacement for maize farming.
Shelling dry maize stalks for animal feeds
It is now a common practice among Uasin Gishu farmers to shell dry maize stalks after harvesting. It then supplements other animal feeds especially during the dry months of January and February. Dry maize stalks are mixed with molasses then fed to the animals.
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