Demonstration project for Kenyan SME vegetable growers: Growing Solutions Kenya
On December 14, 2015 the Growing Solutions Kenya project was officially launched at the Latia Resource Centre. This program, funded by the Dutch government, supports Kenyan growers in producing healthy vegetables with minimal use of synthetic crop and plant protection products. The opening was conducted by Peter Muthee, director of the Latia Resource Centre and Bert Rikken, agricultural counselor Latia.
The project was set up by Green Farming, a consortium consisting of Bosman Van Zaal, Hoogendoorn and 10 other leading suppliers. The goal of the project is to increase productivity and food security for small and medium sized vegetable growers in Kenya enabling them to build a sustainable and profitable business. This is realized by Dutch technology (adapted to local conditions) including automation, combined with the knowledge of local growers and research institutions.
Different levels of technology
In practice the vegetable demonstration project will be implemented at the Latia Resource Centre, 80 km south-east of Nairobi. Tomatoes are grown in three types of greenhouses (a manually controlled greenhouse, a semi-automated and fully automated greenhouse. Local farmers will be intensively trained in modern cultivation techniques including biological pest control and the use of Dutch equipment. This approach guarantees the highest productivity with minimum use of water and fertilizers.
Official opening demonstration greenhouse
The demonstration greenhouse was officially opened in the presence of growers, press and interest groups on December 14th. During the opening ceremony speeches were given by Peter Muthee (director Latia), Martin Helmich (Hoogendoorn), Nico de Groot (DLV Plant) and Bert Rikken (agricultural counselor). Bert Rikken: “This project makes Dutch expertise and technology available for Kenyan farmers and will positively contribute to sustainable food production.”
For more information:
Growing Solutions Kenya
Nico de Groot
info@greenfarming.nl
