MKU, UoN Train Farmers on Climate-Smart Farming Methods to Boost Yields.

Dr. Allan Mweke of MKU (left) and Dr. Cecilia Moraa Onyango of the UoN demonstrate biological pest control techniques to farmers during a training session in Kabaa, Machakos County.

Farmers have been urged to adopt biological pesticides to tackle pest resistance, reduce production costs and mitigate the environmental damage caused by prolonged use of chemical pesticides.

This was the focus of a one-day farmer training held recently and organised by Mount Kenya University (MKU) in partnership with the University of Nairobi (UoN) among other stakeholders. The initiative, that was held at in Kabaa area of Machakos County, brought together over 30 farmers from across the County.

Prof. Cecilia Moraa Onyango, an Associate Professor from the Department of Crop Science and Crop Protection at University of Nairobi (UoN), highlighted the multiple benefits of biological pest control. 

“Embracing biological pesticides offers a sustainable solution, cutting input costs while preserving the environment,” she said.

Her sentiments were echoed by Dr. Allan Mweke, a lecturer at Mount Kenya University’s (MKU) Department of Animal Health and Production, who noted that pesticide-resistant pests are a growing challenge, directly linked to the overuse of chemical treatments.

“Biological pesticides are a viable alternative. They not only combat resistant pests but also improve yield quality and consistency,” Dr. Mweke said.

The farmers were trained on practical techniques for deploying biological pest control methods. The demonstration was part of a broader regional initiative known as AgBio4SSA – Advancement and Adaptation of Agricultural Biologicals to Meet Sub-Saharan Africa Smallholder Farmers' Needs and Build Sustainable Food Systems.

The project, funded by Kenya’s National Research Fund, also runs in Tanzania and South Africa.

In a related environmental effort, MKU has announced it will conduct its Annual Tree Planting Exercise on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Pavilion Graduation Square in Thika. Over 1,000 tree seedlings are expected to be planted during the event, which coincides with the eve of the university’s 27th graduation ceremony.

Meanwhile, MKU Chancellor Prof. John Struthers has confirmed that the 27th Graduation Ceremony will take place on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the Happy Valley Grounds along the Thika-Garissa Highway. Degrees, diplomas, and certificates will be awarded during the ceremony.

Prospective graduands are reminded to finalise academic and financial clearance by July 4, 2025, to be included in the graduation list.

The list of cleared candidates will be published on the MKU website and those omitted are advised to promptly contact their respective schools through official channels.