Kilimo Trust sensitize rice farmers on environmental friendly rice variety

By; Weswa Ronnie 

Regional: Kilimo Trust, an organization supporting rice growers across East Africa, conducted a sensitization workshop for rice farmers from three districts in the Elgon region – Kweni, Mbale, and Bulambuli.

The workshop aimed to educate farmers on environmentally friendly rice varieties, such as upland rice and super new varieties, which can thrive in non-wetland areas.

Kerutado Birungi, Kilimo Trust’s Executive Director, emphasized the importance of adopting these new varieties, citing that rice is a staple food in urban areas, yet its cultivation is restricted in swampy areas.

Birungi encouraged farmers to abandon old varieties and adopt the recommended ones to maintain high rice production and generate income.

Antony Makumbe, Kilimo Trust’s Director in Kenya, highlighted the value of the addition of rice, husks, and straws. He noted that most farmers burn husks and straws instead of drying them for use as animal feed or soil manure.

Jimmy Lamo, a research staff member, mentioned that their partnership with Kilimo Trust has led to significant research on rice, resulting in the identification of water-efficient varieties.

Farmers Sam Malomo and Sarah Nange from Mbale district expressed their appreciation for the workshop, acknowledging that adopting environmentally friendly practices is crucial for sustainable rice production.