CO Gladys Kivoto Visits Benson Mutisya’s Solar-Powered Irrigation Farm in Maaini, Ikutha Ward
Super Chief Officer for Agriculture and Fisheries, Gladys Mami Kivoto, on Tuesday April 14, 2026, led a team of agricultural officers on a field inspection to assess and support ongoing farming activities at Rev. Benson Mutisya’s irrigated farm in Matikoni Village, Maaini Sub-location, Ikutha/Kasaala Ward.
The visit, which formed part of the routine field backstopping and extension services at every Sub-county, aimed to evaluate farm productivity, offer technical guidance, and identify key challenges affecting small-scale farmers in the ward. The team engaged directly with the farmer, observing operations and discussing practical interventions to improve yields and sustainability.
Mr. Mutisya, who operates approximately 3 acres of land under mixed farming, has embraced diversified crop production to include mangoes, watermelons, lemons, oranges, pawpaw, and maize, an approach that not only enhances food security but also spreads economic risk.
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A standout feature of the farm is its adoption of irrigation supported by renewable energy. Water is sourced from River Tiva and pumped through a shallow well using a solar-powered system.
According to the farmer, the shift to solar energy followed high fuel costs associated with conventional water pumps. He revealed that he invested about Ksh. 300,000 in installing 6 solar panels, enabling him to pump water directly without recurring fuel expenses. “I used to rely on fuel-powered machines to pump water from River Tiva, which was very expensive. Switching to solar energy has made irrigation more affordable and sustainable,” Mr. Mutisya explained.
Since venturing into irrigated farming in 2020, he has benefited from consistent technical support from the Ikutha Ward agricultural extension office. This has included guidance on pest and disease management, use of certified seeds, and improved crop husbandry practices.
Watermelon farming, in particular, has proven to be a lucrative venture. Mr. Mutisya noted that he enjoys a ready market, especially from buyers in Machakos County. During peak seasons, he harvests up to 10 tonnes of watermelons, generating over Ksh. 300,000 in revenue.
Speaking during the visit, CO Kivoto commended the farmer for embracing modern agricultural practices, especially irrigation and the use of renewable energy. She emphasized the importance of innovation and resilience in transforming agriculture in semi-arid areas like Kitui South.
However, during the assessment the team identified several challenges affected the farm, including crop destruction caused by stray livestock, limited farm planning and management skills, inadequate record-keeping, and persistent pest and disease outbreaks affecting productivity.
To address these issues, the technical team recommended the adoption of proper fruit tree pruning techniques, implementation of Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) strategies, and strengthening of field sanitation practices. They also emphasized the need for structured farm planning and comprehensive record-keeping to support informed decision-making.
The visit highlighted both the progress and challenges facing irrigated farming in Ikutha Ward. Mr. Mutisya’s efforts demonstrate the potential of combining innovation with technical support to boost agricultural productivity. With continued guidance and implementation of recommended practices, his farm is poised for even greater success.
As the county government intensifies its support for farmers, such field engagements remain critical in driving sustainable agricultural development and improving livelihoods across Kitui South and the County at large.
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