August 25, 2014 - Today's News In Gazetikenya

Farmers urged to heed EU warning

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei has urged horticultural farmers to strictly adhere to instructions from extension officers on the use of pesticides. That would save the multibillion- shilling industry from collapse due to a likely ban in the European Union market, he said yesterday. The industry, which earned Sh83 billion in foreign exchange last year, faced a major threat after EU said it would ban Kenyan produce over improper use of pesticides, Mr Koskei said, noting that some produce was being turned away from the EU market.

 He was speaking at Magutuni market during a tour of Muringa Banana Irrigation Project in Maara constituency, Tharaka Nithi County. “We have encountered problems abroad due to farmers using banned substances while others are using excessive pesticides. “Farmers must follow what they are being asked by extension officers. Let us follow what the EU buyers are asking.” The minister cited Meru County as one of the regions where substandard produce had been detected.


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