By Dennis Bett
The Elgeyo Marakwet County Government has sensitized farmers to embrace the growing of vetiver grass to combat soil erosion in the wake of the ongoing rains that have left behind a trail of destruction.
Speaking in Kapsoo and Emsea centres during a public baraza, Governor Alex Tolgos said the rains that continue pounding the area have regrettably destroyed roads and cause soil erosions in farms.
He said his Government was liaising with the office of the County Commissioner with a view to addressing any emergencies caused by the rains across the county.
The County boss challenged local farmers to desist from carrying out illegal farming practices along the precarious escarpments.
During the baraza, the Governor led a delegation of County officials to demonstration farms where two farmers, Samuel Teimuge and Edward Wafula have embraced use of grass known as Vetiver to manage soil erosion.
“The use of vetiver has indeed proved to effectively combat the erosions that are common in the escarpments. These two farmers should be emulated by everyone in this region, “said Tolgos.
Vetiver is a tall perennial grass (Vetiveria zizanioides) of southeastern Asia cultivated in warm regions especially for its fragrant roots which are used especially in woven goods (such as mats) and in perfumes.
