CO Gladys Kivoto Visits Model Horticulture Farm in Nzambani Ward, Lauds Farmer’s Success
Super Chief Officer for Agriculture and Fisheries, Gladys Mami Kivoto, on Monday April 13, 2026, led a team of extension officers on a monitoring visit to Ngengi Village in Nzambani Ward, Kitui East Constituency, where she assessed progress in irrigated horticultural farming.
The team visit focused on the thriving farm of Joseph Kyutha, a progressive farmer who, alongside his two sons Mark and Jeff, has transformed horticulture into a successful agribusiness venture. The family manages three parcels of land totaling approximately 8 acres, primarily dedicated to irrigated crop production.
Mr. Kyutha ventured into horticultural farming in 2024 and has since recorded impressive success. His farm produces a variety of crops including tomatoes, kales, cabbages, onions, and maize. This success has been largely supported by technical guidance from agricultural extension officers in Nzambani Ward, highlighting the critical role of extension services in empowering farmers.
The farm relies on a borehole-powered irrigation system, with water pumped into overhead tanks and distributed through a gravity-fed network. In addition, the farmer has constructed a farm pond that serves both as a water reservoir and an aquaculture unit, where tilapia fish are reared, further diversifying income streams.
Speaking during the visit, CO Kivoto commended Mr. Kyutha for his dedication and innovation in horticultural farming, noting that his work stands out as a model of resilience despite the challenges he has encountered. “This is a clear example of what farmers can achieve with proper planning, irrigation and extension support,” she said.
The farm employs 10 permanent workers and engages about 21 casual labourers during peak seasons, contributing to local employment. Notably, Mr. Kyutha’s sons, who are professionally trained in agriculture, play a key role in the day-to-day management of the farm, facilitating the adoption of modern farming practices and innovation.
In terms of marketing, the farmer sells his produce directly at the farm gate to hotels and vegetable vendors from Kitui Town. This approach minimizes transportation costs and ensures that buyers receive fresh produce promptly.
YOU MISSED: CO Gladys Kivoto Distributes Over 650 Tree Seedlings to Mbengeleni Conservancy Group in Isaa, Mutha Ward
Despite the notable achievements, the farmer highlighted several challenges affecting operations. These include limited access to capital for expansion, pests and diseases that impact crop yields, and heavy rainfall that occasionally causes waterlogging, negatively affecting productivity.
Agricultural officers accompanying the Chief Officer recommended increased access to affordable credit, improved pest and disease control measures, and investment in drainage systems to address waterlogging.
They also emphasized the need to scale integrated farming systems combining crop production and aquaculture, and the documentation of the farm as a demonstration site for other farmers in the county.
The field visit provided valuable insights into sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices. Mr. Kyutha’s farm continues to stand out as a practical example of success, illustrating how dedication, innovation, and the right support systems can transform agriculture into a profitable and sustainable enterprise.
Ends///
