The growing demand for the avocado fruit,both locally and internationally, is an opportunity Baringo County cannot afford to miss. This was evident at Koibatek Agricultural Training Centre, ATC, when the farming community turned up in large numbers to purchase subsidized avocado seedlings.

Governor Benjamin Cheboi said the 7,000seedlings is part of a strategy to boost the nutritional avocado fruit exports to 20,000 tonnes a year. He said Baringo has unique agroecological zones that areideal for growing export-preferred varieties like Hass and Fuerte, which are highly competitive in global markets.

Governor Cheboi thanked the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) and the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD) for their support towards the initiative. He called on farmers to work in groups andcooperative societies and to make use of the services provided by Koibatek Agricultural Training Centre and the 148 extension officers employed by the County Government because they are there for you.

Avocado production in Baringo is low becauseof several challenges faced by farmers. They include inadequate planting materials, poor orchard management, low-quality produce, and farmers reliance on middle-men who offer low prices. They County Government is working to mitigate these challenges through farmer sensitization and development of infrastructure,among other measures.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Betty Cheseremfrom AFA thanked the County Government for making it possible for farmers to access avocado seedlings at an affordable price.