A man, only identified by his social media name as Leonard Ithau, has celebrated his achievements in Agriculture.
The man says it is nearly two years since him and his siblings started (serious) farming in Kyaviti Farm.
The man noted that they had moved to the city and only came back to continue where the mother left after her death.
“The farm is an inheritance from my parents and since all of us had moved to the big cities to pursue different interests, after Mum died, we had to quickly put our minds together so the land isn’t left idle. We had to continue where Mum left.” He said.
Despite achievements in Agriculture, the man acknowledged that they have no background training in Agriculture.
“With no background or training in agriculture, we set out on an adventure that has taught us many lessons along the way.”
“As children of one mother and father, working together has rekindled many fond childhood memories. We are now all grown, with children and some with grandchildren. We are the Ithau children.” He said.
This week, the man says, #KyavitiFarm hosted a delegation of 70 people from the Embassy of Japan, Makueni County, National Government, media and members of the Kwekavi Horticultural Group.
“It was a very humbling moment as we commenced the farm tour. Our first stop was the Ndumoni Banana Farm, where we showcased the different varieties of bananas that we are growing.”
“Makueni is a very dry area and our guests naturally wondered how we can grow so many bananas – which use a lot of water. Our secret, we told them is the Ndumoni river, located at the edge of the banana farm.”
“We pump water from the river to the rest of the farm, utilizing strategically placed taps for optimal irrigation.”
“Our next stop was #KyavitiPond. Its size left our visitors astounded, and I remember one government official saying, “When I saw this, I knew this farm will thrive, as they have effectively tackled the water challenge, which plagues many farmers.”
“The water from the pond is what we use to grow different types of horticulture – Sukuma wiki, Spinach, Cabbage, Terere, mangoes, butternut squash, watermelons, and tomatoes. We grow them all year round.
“For efficiency and to conserve water, we have installed drip line pipes. Each morning, we irrigate the crops for 30 minutes ensuring our tomatoes get ample hydration while minimising waste.
“After the farm tour, we had a reflective dialogue and were joined by members of the Kwekavi Horticultural Group. Kyaviti Farm is a proud member of the group.
“During the session, we exchanged ideas, celebrated our collective victories, acknowledged challenges, and discussed strategies to overcome obstacles on our path.
“We are grateful for all the valuable feedback and insights we got on how to improve and increase our produce.
“#KyavitiFarm is open for visits (on appointment). We are happy to share our farming lessons (the good, bad and ugly)!”
