The two Philippines-based companies, ELR Family Trading Inc. and Richfund International will oversee the manufacture of Plantmate Bio-Organic Fertiliser in Kenya.

 

"It's commendable to see more young Kenyans venture into agriculture and we are committed to supporting such initiatives" Agriculture Cabinet Secret art Willy Bett noted during the signing agreement on Monday, "the government will continue to support such ventures by the youth."

 

Currently, Wanda Organic imports and markets Plantmate Bio-Organic Fertiliser, which is produced in Philippines from plant and animal wastes. The fertiliser has been on a pilot testing since 2014 in Machakos, Makueni Counties, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nakuru and Laikipia Counties.

 

In preparation for this local production phase, the company has been training farmers and conducting demonstrations on the benefits of organic fertilizer in order to build demand for these products.

 

Wanda Organic founder and Managing Director Marion Atieno Moon says the agreement marks a critical step to sustainably maximize productivity of small holder farmers in Kenya.

 

"Poor agronomic practices have led to increased erosion and reduced soil fertility in Kenya. Furthermore, limited access to quality fertilizers and organic matter for smallholder farmers have contributed significantly to poor productivity resulting in food insecurity as well as low earnings for smallholder farmers.

 

"Through this partnership, Wanda Organic will also set up semi-mechanised factories across the country via joint venture partnerships with entities that can supply raw materials for the fertilizer," she said.

 

At 30 years of age, Moon is among seven recipients of a grant from the US Agency for International Development (USAID) under Feed the Future to pilot a private sector-oriented innovation with the potential to transform rural family farms.

Source : allafrica.com