Smallholder farmers in Mai Mahiu, Naivasha East, and Maiella Wards have been urged to embrace sunflower cultivation, a crop with high unmet demand and a guaranteed ready market. During a community sensitization meeting, farmers were informed that sunflower farming is not only profitable but also provides a sustainable solution to reduce the country’s dependence on imported edible oils and enhance local production of livestock feeds.
Officials from the Department of Agriculture and the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) highlighted the advantages of sunflower, including its drought resistance and adaptability to various ecological zones, making it ideal for local farmers. The farmers were encouraged to form cooperatives and organized groups, which would enable them to add value to their sunflower products, thereby increasing their profits compared to selling raw seeds.
“Sunflower is a game-changer for our farmers, offering them a chance to improve their livelihoods and contribute to local oil production,” said one of the officials. Farmers were also advised on the benefits of incorporating value addition into their enterprises, such as processing sunflower oil, which would significantly enhance their income.
Naivasha Sub-County has so far received 3.5 tonnes of sunflower seeds, sufficient to cover 1,000 acres. Enthusiastic farmers promised to “paint Naivasha yellow” with sunflower crops, signifying their commitment to expanding sunflower farming in the area.
The push towards sunflower cultivation aligns with efforts to boost local agricultural production, support smallholder farmers, and strengthen the region’s economic resilience. By embracing this crop, farmers are set to benefit from increased market opportunities, enhanced food security, and reduced import dependency, paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural future in Naivasha.
