Nakuru youth have been challenged to venture into farming in order to improve their socio-economic status.
Addressing locals at Keringet town, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei observed that young people are reluctant to venture into farming.
He said that agriculture has been left in the hands of the elderly; a move that could result to food shortage in future if nothing is done.
“It’s unfortunate that our young people are not willing to engage in farming as a way of earning a livelihood,” said Koskei.
The CS said the government has put in place measures meant to encourage youth into farming, adding added that the government is working with the private sector especially universities to come up with ways of encouraging young people to farm.
Koskei observed that rising rates of unemployment across the country can be dealt with if young people take up farming.
He stated that farming has returns and that the youth should shun traditional myths and perceptions associated with agriculture.
“Most young people believe that farming is meant for the poor and the elderly,” he said, adding that there is need to change the perceptions.
Meanwhile the CS announced that the government will set a Sh9 million cooling plant in Keringet to enable farmers preserve their dairy products.
He indicated that the area has no cooling plant, which has seen farmers incur losses. The CS also asked the county government to spearhead renovation and repair of roads to help farmers access the market.