The Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) has initiated a grafting technology centre in Nakuru, seeking to empower local fruit farmers.
According Nakuru Regional Manager of ADC Paul Njuguna, the grafting centre will offer training services in grafting technology to local fruit farmers, in order for them to diversify their horticultural production and ventures.
Speaking to our reporter at the ADC Demonstration Station in Lanet on Saturday, Njuguna said that the project that kicks off early next month will target small scale farmers of fruits and vegetables, and community-based youth and women groups wishing to venture into horticultural production.
“We are trying to develop a sustainable horticultural development system in Nakuru region after a long term survey of the local horticultural industry. We are sure that this project will empower both existing and new farmers. We will target small scale farmers and community based groups willing to venture into horticultural production industry,” said Njuguna.
He added that all plans were ready, including contacting and persuading of the target groups and all the logistics in the training and demonstration activities.
He observed that grafting technology allows for high quality and quantity produce as it mitigates crop diseases, use of fertilizer and pesticides and promotes hybrid of new and variety of products.