Tuesday, October 27, 2024 – By John Ekadeli, KALRO Communications

In Kajiado County, tomato farming is more than just an agricultural activity; it’s a lifeline for thousands of farmers and a cornerstone of the local economy. Thanks to the partnership between the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the Korea Africa Food and Agriculture Corporation Initiative (KAFACI), tomato farmers here are experiencing transformational support through training and new technologies.

Tomato farming in Kajiado County: Greenhouse precision and large-scale open-field production. PHOTO | JOHN EKADELI

Through close collaboration with local agricultural officers, KALRO has reached over 2,000 tomato farmers in Rombo Ward. Farmers have received hands-on training on advanced techniques such as soil fertility management, pest control, and disease prevention. This support has enabled farmers to boost their yields, producing as much as 20 tons of tomatoes per acre annually.

Mr. Naftali Chege explaining  the project’s achievements and support provided to tomato farmers. PHOTO | JOHN EKADELI

James Kimani, a large-scale tomato farmer from Rombo, has been producing tomatoes for 15 years and attributes much of his livelihood to the income generated from tomato farming. “I cannot complain since I have been able to raise my children and take them to school using money from tomato farming,” Kimani explains. However, he acknowledges the journey has had its challenges, especially due to persistent issues with pests, diseases, and fluctuating markets. On his 10-acre farm, while he can sometimes sell his tomatoes for a good profit, he shares that “when the price is very low, I would rather leave the tomatoes on my farm for my domestic cattle to feed on.” He expresses frustration over high costs when attempting to transport his produce to larger markets, such as Wakulima Market in Nairobi, citing expenses that include wages, transport fees, and county cess charges, totaling approximately KSh 45,000. “The cost is so high that it’s often not worth the sale price, so I prefer giving my cows to eat, and that is a big challenge for me,” Kimani adds.

Mr. James Kimani at his Tomato farm in Rombo,Kajiado County. PHOTO | JOHN EKADELI

James Kimani, a seasoned large-scale tomato farmer, shares how tomato farming has allowed him to support his family and educate his children. Although he faces challenges like market fluctuations and high transport costs, the knowledge and tools provided by KALRO have given him hope. Kimani, along with other farmers, hopes for government support to create processing facilities, which would improve their earnings by reducing post-harvest losses.

Similarly, Maryam Sunte, a small-scale farmer, has seen her yields improve significantly since adopting KALRO’s recommended practices.

Ms. Maryam Sunte, a dedicated small-scale tomato farmer from Kajiado, showcases her bumper harvest alongside Dr. Lusike Wasilwa, Director of Crop Systems, KALRO PHOTO | JOHN EKADELI

However, she dreams of a time when the market becomes stable and local processing plants are available to convert surplus produce into valuable products like tomato sauce, reducing waste and increasing income.

Tomato farmers in Kajiado County face tough challenges, including pest infestations and high post-harvest losses. KALRO’s training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has helped farmers manage pests sustainably, while also reducing reliance on chemicals. In addition, by adopting new packaging and transport methods, farmers are minimizing losses that can reach up to 30%.

Post-harvest challenges faced by tomato farmers, including animal invasion and the high perishability of the produce. PHOTO | JOHN EKADELI

New technologies introduced by KALRO, such as the Cocoli soil amendment, have greatly enhanced tomato quality. Farmers are now producing tomatoes with better firmness, color, and a longer shelf life, making their produce more marketable.

Through initiatives like these, Kajiado County is on the path to becoming a leader in tomato production. Looking forward, KALRO and its partners are committed to supporting these farmers further by promoting high-yield, disease-resistant tomato varieties and advocating for processing facilities in the region. With continued collaboration, Kajiado’s tomato farmers are hopeful for a future where their hard work results in better incomes and a stronger local economy.

Farmers packaging and grading tomatoes to prepare for the market. PHOTO | JOHN EKADELI