Laikipia farmers turn to soil testing as maize yields fall

In Ngobit, Laikipia East, farmers are grappling with decreasing maize yields after years of farming the same land, with some farms only producing three bags of maize per hectare. At a soil testing launch in Ngobit ward on October 8, 2026, farmers expressed concerns over low yields and food security due to insufficient knowledge of soil fertility and improvement techniques.

The issue stems from inadequate soil management and continuous cultivation without proper care, causing yield reductions. Macharia, a local farmer, noted that a hectare capable of higher yields now only yields about three bags of maize, while the expected yield is closer to forty bags. This has significantly impacted households, increasing food insecurity within the community.

To address these challenges, agricultural experts from Green Earth trained Ngobit farmers on soil assessment, identifying nutrient deficiencies, and selecting appropriate fertilizers and crops. The training emphasized soil testing as the first step in improving farm productivity. Another farmer, Pastor Johanna, expressed gratitude for the practical knowledge gained, noting that the lessons would transform her farming approach.

Laikipia Women Representative aspirant, Deborah Wanjugu, linked the declining yields to decades of continuous cultivation without adequate soil management. Wanjugu advised farmers to first assess their soil's condition before applying any remedies. Soil testing during the exercise helped farmers identify the specific problems affecting their farms.

The program also aims to introduce farmers to alternative crops like avocados and passion fruits to enhance productivity and strengthen food security in Laikipia. Now, Ngobit farmers are focused on understanding their soil, selecting suitable crops, and adopting appropriate farming practices to reverse years of declining harvests.