Kenyan schoolchildren are set to get a practical lesson on how modern farming can become a source of wealth as the Mombasa International Agricultural Show opens next week.
Organisers are encouraging schools to bring students to the six day event to expose them to modern farming methods, including kitchen gardens, vertical farming and new agricultural technologies.
An agriculture stakeholder urged young people to change their perception of farming, saying the sector can offer a viable path to wealth.
“Farming is not a job for poor people. Farming can make you rich,” the stakeholder said.
The message comes as organisers prepare for the show scheduled for September 2 to 6 at the Mombasa Showground.
More than 1,000 exhibitors are expected to participate, although more than 250 local exhibitors and six foreign companies had registered by Thursday, according to Mombasa Agricultural Show chairman Henry Nyaga.
Nyaga said students will be among the key beneficiaries of the exhibition as they get an opportunity to see farming technologies that can be used even in small spaces.
“We are encouraging schools to bring them in large numbers to learn new farming techniques,” an agriculture stakeholder said.
The show will also expose learners and farmers to new seeds, crops and technologies aimed at improving production and household incomes.
More than 700 livestock have already been brought to the showground, with farmers expected to see improved breeds, including dairy cows capable of producing at least 40 litres of milk a day.
“If you are a farmer interested in dairy farming, you will see cows that can produce 40 litres and above per day,” Nyaga said.
The event will also give students a chance to see how agriculture is changing through technology and innovation.
The focus on young people comes as the agriculture sector seeks to attract a new generation into farming and agribusiness.
Organisers say exposing learners to practical farming ideas could help them develop business ideas and view agriculture as more than traditional subsistence farming.
The Mombasa International Show will be held under the theme “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth.”
For farmers, the event will provide an opportunity to interact with agricultural experts, companies and other producers while exploring technologies that could improve productivity.
For students, organisers hope the lessons will change how they view farming and show them that agriculture can be a business, a career and a source of wealth.
