Agriculture remains a key pillar of economic growth and household livelihoods in Meru County, with leaders calling on farmers to embrace innovation and modern technologies to boost productivity and improve incomes.
Speaking during the opening of the Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Meru Show, county leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting agricultural transformation through strategic investments, partnerships, and farmer-focused policies aimed at strengthening food security and creating economic opportunities.
The annual exhibition brought together farmers, exhibitors, development partners, agricultural institutions, and members of the public to showcase emerging technologies and practical solutions designed to address challenges facing the sector.
Addressing participants during the event, county officials described the ASK Show as an important platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, entrepreneurship, and networking within the agricultural value chain.
They noted that agriculture continues to be the backbone of Meru’s economy, supporting thousands of households through crop farming, livestock production, agribusiness, and related enterprises.
The exhibition featured a wide range of displays highlighting modern farming practices, climate-smart agriculture technologies, value addition opportunities, mechanization, improved crop varieties, livestock management techniques, and digital solutions aimed at enhancing farm productivity.
Farmers attending the show were encouraged to explore new technologies and learn from experts on how to improve efficiency, reduce production costs, and increase returns from their agricultural activities.
Organizers said the event provides a valuable opportunity for farmers to interact directly with researchers, extension officers, financial institutions, agribusiness companies, and development organizations working to transform the agricultural sector.
A major focus of this year’s exhibition was the promotion of climate-smart farming practices as farmers increasingly face challenges associated with changing weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and rising production costs.
Exhibitors showcased innovations such as water-efficient irrigation systems, drought-tolerant crop varieties, soil conservation technologies, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable livestock production methods.
County officials emphasized that embracing innovation and technology will be critical in ensuring food security and building resilient farming systems capable of withstanding climate-related shocks.
They also highlighted the importance of value addition, noting that processing agricultural produce locally can help farmers earn higher incomes while creating employment opportunities for young people.
The county government reiterated its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector through investments in extension services, market linkages, farmer training programs, infrastructure development, and partnerships with both public and private sector stakeholders.
Leaders further encouraged young people to view agriculture as a viable business venture, pointing to emerging opportunities in agritech, agribusiness, processing, and value chain development.
Participants were urged to take full advantage of the exhibition by engaging with exhibitors, attending demonstrations, and learning about innovations that can improve productivity and profitability.
As the show continues, stakeholders expressed optimism that the knowledge and technologies shared during the event will contribute to increased agricultural production, improved household incomes, and sustainable economic growth across Meru County.
The ASK Meru Show remains one of the region’s most important agricultural exhibitions, providing a platform where farmers can access information, discover new technologies, and connect with partners committed to advancing Kenya’s agricultural transformation agenda.
By: Samuel Mwangi
