Over 1000 villagers in some parts of Gem Constituency are now set to benefit from a partnership with East African Breweries (EABL) where the locals will engage in Sorghum farming.
EABL has been undertaking a pilot project where farmers reaped sh 3 million from Sorghum farming out of the 75 tones harvested.
An EABL field officer Mr Victor Onyango said in North Gem, Asayi location, Sirembe sub location during a Sorghum seed distribution for village elders that they are at the moment working with farmers in in a bid to sensitize them on the need to plant sorghum as a raw material.
Onyango said that they have been encouraging local farmers to revert to the crop especially the local variety since it is easier to handle and not attacked by birds.
He said that they are at the moment trying to identify farmers in Gem who have huge acres of farms so that they can be used for seed bulking.
In the process, he said, such farmers will be used at distribution points in other parts of Gem constituency.
Onyango said the seeds will be supplied through aggregators and registered farmer groups contracted by the EABL as the project picks up.
He said they are encouraging local people to resort to Sorghum farming as means of ensuring food security and reducing crime.
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The field officer said that they want local youths to venture into sorghum farming as a cash crop which can do very well in the area.
Onyango said they have introduced a variety which takes only three months to mature.
“EABL will be very prompt in purchasing the crops from the farmers once they mature” he said.
Area assistant chief George Ooko said insecurity has reduced in areas where Sorghum farming is taking place.
A farmer John Odhiambo said he has constructed a permanent home through sorghum farming.
The director of Sirembe community professionals, Sam Opot who has been coordinating the groups, encouraged locals to take the venture seriously.
Opot said the program will later be rolled out in the entire constituency.
He said it is one of the ways and means of enhancing food security and also restoring security in Gem constituency.
By Fredrick Odiero
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