Farming in Kitale: A Complete Guide to Agriculture in Kitale

Introduction to Farming in Kitale

Farming in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, Kenya’s food basket is a major activity contributing to the country’s food security. Its fertile volcanic soils and good climate are ideal for large-scale and small holders. Agriculture plays an important role in the Kenyan’s economy. It provides food security, jobs and income to thousands of farmers. The agricultural diversity of the region ensures a stable food supply for local and national markets. Therefore, farming in Kenya plays a major role in the economy as a whole.

This guide highlights the main agricultural activities in Kitale, including:

• Maize Farming – It is the main staple crop and a major income source for local farmers.
• Dairy Farming – It thrives due to increasing demand for quality pastures and milk.
• Poultry farming-This enterprise is beneficial and works for both small and large-scale producers.
• Onion cultivation – This activity is gaining popularity due to high market demand and good profits.
• Pig farming-these rapidly growing agribusiness is known for its high fertility rate and profit.
• Beekeeping (apucccleture) – Honey and bees are increased in this permanent farming activity.

Maize Farming in Kitale

Kitale is one of the top corn-productive areas of Kenya. Its role is important in the country’s food security scheme. Maize is the main meal for millions of Kenya. For many farmers in the region, it is also a major commercial crop. You can see its importance in the vast areas that fill the scenario of KITALE. Both farmers and smallholders allocate most of their land for this valuable grain.

The economic influence of maize cultivation in Kitale is very large. This is the main income source for many agricultural families, which helps pay for education and healthcare. It also allows for re -re-renovation in farming. In addition, the maize price chain benefits several related businesses, including suppliers, transporters, and processors. This creates a positive wave effect in the local economy.

Table1. Maize Varieties Grown in Kitale

Variety	Key Features	Yield Potential (Bags per Acre)	Resistance
H614D	Drought-tolerant, high-yielding	35-40	Moderate pest resistance
DH04	Large cobs, early maturing	30-35	Resistant to foliar diseases
H6213	Adapts well to Kitale’s altitude and climate	38-42	Good resistance to diseases

Best Practices in Maize Cultivation

Land Preparation

Successful maize farming begins with the preparation of proper land. Deep plowing compact to a depth of 20–30 cm breaks the soil. It improves aeration and water infiltration. In heavy soils of Kitale, it is important for strong root development. Many progressive farmers use minimum plowing methods. These methods preserve soil structure and low erosion risks, especially on slope.

Planting

Timing is key for maize planting in Kitale. Most farmers plant with the long rains in March-April. Using certified high-yield seed varieties that suit the region is essential for good yields. Popular varieties include:

• H614D: Drought tolerant with high yield potential.
• DH04: Resistant to common foliar diseases and produces large cobs.
• H6213: Well-suited to Kitale’s altitude and climate.

These improved varieties can yield 40 bags (90 kg each) per acre with good management. Traditional varieties yield only 15-20 bags.

Fertilization

Soil testing is recommended before using fertilizers to identify nutrients needs. In planting, many farmers apply diamonium phosphate (DAP) at 50 kg per acre. It provides important phosphorus for root development. When the plants reach the height of the knee, farmers are usually top-elaborate with calcium ammonium nitrate (can). It supports development and cob formation.

Farmers in Kitale are adopting integrated soil fertility management. This form combines inorganic fertilizers with organic inputs such as manure and fertilizer. It improves soil structure and microbial activity.

Pest & Disease Control

The fall armyworm is a major threat to maize in Kitale. Effective control relies on early detection and timely pesticide application. Biological control methods, such as using natural predators and biopesticides, are becoming popular as sustainable options.

Maize lethal necrosis disease (MLND) is mainly managed with preventive strategies. These include crop rotation, using resistant varieties, and controlling insect vectors. Maintaining field hygiene, like removing infected plants, helps stop disease spread.

Harvesting & Post-Harvest Handling

Harvesting in the dry season keeps moisture below 13%. This is vital to stop aflatoxin contamination, which can make maize unsafe. After harvesting, dry the maize on clean surfaces, like cement floors or tarpaulins, before storage.

Modern storage solutions gaining popularity in Kitale include:

• Hermetic bags that create oxygen-depleted environments hostile to pests
• Metal silos that protect grain from rodents and insects
• Improved granaries with better ventilation and pest control features

These technologies have greatly cut post-harvest losses. In the past, these losses took away up to 30% of harvested grain.

Challenges in Maize Farming

Price fluctuations are a constant problem. Bumper harvests can lead to market gluts and lower prices. Farmers often rely on middlemen, who exploit them with unfair pricing, cutting into profits.

Climate variability is becoming more unpredictable. Shifting rainfall patterns and extreme weather disrupt traditional planting schedules. Extended dry spells during key growth stages can ruin yields. Excessive rainfall can also lead to disease.

Input costs for certified seeds and fertilizers keep increasing. This squeezes profit margins for many farmers. Limited access to affordable credit makes it worse, especially for smallholder farmers.

Dairy Farming in Kitale

Kitale is a top position for dairy farming in Kenya. It has a lot of pastures , a good climate , and reliable water source . These factors make it perfect to increase dairy cows. Many farmers in Kayal have turned to dairy farming due to the increasing demand for milk in urban and rural areas. This demand provides a stable source ** of income for many homes.

Table 2: Common Dairy Cattle Breeds in Kitale

Breed	Daily Milk Production (Liters)	Key Advantages	Best Suited For
Friesian	25-30	High milk yield, commercial dairy farms	Large-scale farmers
Ayrshire	15-25	Climate adaptability, moderate feed requirements	Medium-scale farmers
Jersey	12-18	High butterfat content, efficient feed conversion	Small-scale farmers

Common Dairy Breeds

Three main cattle breeds dominate the dairy landscape in Kitale:

1. Friesian cows

• Known for impressive milk output (up to 30 liters daily)
• Large black and white cattle preferred by commercial farmers
• Require intensive feeding and specialized management

2. Ayrshire cattle

• Well-adapted to Kitale’s climate conditions
• Produce 15-25 liters of milk daily
• More disease-resistant than Friesians
• Require moderate feeding, suitable for medium-scale farmers

3. Jersey cows

• Smaller than other dairy breeds
• Produce milk with exceptionally high butterfat content
• Yield 12-18 liters daily
• Efficient feed converters, ideal for dairy processing

Feeding & Management Practices

Dairy farmers in Kitale usually use one of two systems:

Zero-grazing system:

• Cattle stay in well-designed sheds with specific areas.
• Farmers cut and carry fodder to the animals.
• This system maximises land use and reduces parasite exposure.
• It also improves manure collection and management.

Semi-zero grazing system:

• This combines confined feeding with limited grazing time.
• Cattle graze in paddocks for certain hours.
• Animals return to sheds for extra feeding.
• It balances natural grazing with controlled nutrition.

Common feeds include:

• Napier grass (grows abundantly in Kitale)
• Maize silage (made during harvest seasons)
• Commercial dairy meal (for protein needs)
• Fodder conservation (silage and hay for dry seasons)

These systems save space and protect pastures from overgrazing.

• Farmers feed cows Napier grass, maize silage, hay, and dairy meal to increase milk production.
• Cows need clean water at all times and mineral supplements to stay healthy.
• Cows live in clean, well-ventilated shelters to prevent diseases. Farmers also vaccinate them and seek veterinary help when necessary.

Milk Production & Market

Dairy farmers in Kitale sell milk to dairy cooperatives, local shops, milk processors, and individuals. Some farmers use milk dispensers to sell directly to consumers.

To earn more money, some farmers make yogurt, cheese, and butter instead of selling raw milk. Dairy cooperatives help farmers find better markets and fair prices for their milk.

Challenges in Dairy Farming

Dairy farmers in Kitale face several common challenges:

1. Feed Costs
   • Commercial feeds are expensive, especially in dry seasons.
   • Maintaining proper nutrition year-round is tough.
   • This affects consistent milk production.
2. Disease Management
   • Mastitis harms milk quality and production.
   • Foot and mouth disease can threaten entire herds.
   • Veterinary services and medications are costly.
3. Market Fluctuations
   • Milk prices drop during glut periods.
   • Limited cooling facilities force quick sales at lower prices.
   • Seasonal production changes affect stable income.

Poultry Farming in Kitale

Poultry farming is a profitable and growing trading in Kitale. Many farmers choose it because it requires low startup cost compared to dairy or pig cultivation. Poultry increases rapidly , only in 6 to 8 weeks ready for sale with broiler. The demand for products like eggs and meat remains high in urban and rural markets, giving farmers stable income.

Table 3. Poultry Farming: Common Breeds in Kitale

Breed	Production Focus	Growth Rate	Market Demand
Layers	Egg production	Start laying at 18-20 weeks	High demand in urban centers
Broilers	Meat production	Ready in 6-8 weeks	Steady demand from hotels, supermarkets
Kienyeji (Indigenous)	Dual-purpose (Egg & Meat)	Slower growth (5-6 months)	Premium organic market

Common Poultry Breeds in Kitale

Farmers in Kitale raise different types of poultry based on their goals and market needs. The most common breeds are:

Layers

• Popular breeds are Isa Brown and White Leghorn.
• They produce 250-300 eggs each year.
• They start laying eggs at 18-20 weeks and continue for 12-18 months.
• There is high demand in urban markets and local institutions.

Broilers

• Fast-growing breeds include Cobb 500 and Ross 308.
• They are ready for market in 6-8 weeks, weighing 1.5-2kg.
• They convert feed efficiently and yield good meat.
• They are popular for home consumption and commercial sales.

Indigenous (Kienyeji) Chicken

• These are local breeds adapted to Kitale’s climate.
• They need less management and feeding.
• Their meat and eggs sell for premium prices due to organic quality.
• They have higher disease resistance, which cuts medication costs.
• There is a growing market among health-conscious consumers.

Housing & Management

Proper housing and management are necessary to keep poultry healthy and productive.

• Housing: Poultry House needs to be well cheerful to reduce the risks of the disease. Farmers can select locally made wood structures or modern homes with automated systems for temperature control and feeding.
• Feeding: Most farmers rely on commercial hen feed for balanced nutrition. Some kitchens also use waste and organic feeds. This is common for free-range and cooking chickens to cut costs and promote nutritional value.
• Health Management: Regular vaccination and disease monitoring is necessary. Diseases such as newcomeal disease can erase an entire herd if not stopped. Farmers should consult veterinary experts to keep their herd healthy.

Market Opportunities & Profitability

Poultry farming in Kitale offers diverse market opportunities:

1. Egg marketing

• Direct sales to local households and retail shops
• Supply to hotels, restaurants, and institutions
• Packaging in branded trays for supermarket sales
• Wholesale distribution to urban markets in Eldoret and Nakuru

2. Meat sales

• Live bird sales for traditional ceremonies and special occasions
• Dressed chicken for hotels, restaurants, and fast-food outlets
• Market demand peaks during holidays and festive seasons
• Growing preference for organic, free-range meat

Additional revenue streams

• Poultry manure sold to crop farmers as organic fertilizer
• Sale of day-old chicks from breeding operations
• Training services for new poultry farmers
• Value-added products like chicken sausages and nuggets

Financial viability

• Layers can generate profit margins of 25-35% with proper management
• Broiler operations typically achieve 15-20% profit margins per cycle
• Indigenous chicken farming offers higher margins but slower growth
• Integrated operations (breeding, rearing, and selling) maximize profitability

Onion Farming in Kitale

Onion farming is increasing in popularity due to high demand in both local and regional markets. Onions are a staple component in many Kenyan dishes, meaning that there is a stable and reliable market for farmers. In addition, onions require lower space than other crops. This makes them perfect for small scale farmers who want to get maximum benefits on limited land .

Table 4: Onion Varieties Grown in Kitale

Variety	Bulb Size	Maturity Period	Market Demand
Red Creole	Medium	120-150 days	High due to long shelf life
Bombay Red	Small-Medium	90-120 days	Fast-maturing, good for fresh markets
Texas Grano	Large	100-130 days	High-value market preference

Best Onion Varieties for Kitale

1. Red Creole

This variety is marketable because of its deep red colour, strong flavour, and long shelf life. Consumers and traders like it since it stays fresh longer, which cuts post-harvest losses.

2. Bombay Red

Bombay Red grows quickly and yields well, making it ideal for farmers wanting fast harvests and higher profits. Its good storage and resistance to splitting make it a favourite among many farmers.

3. Texas Grano

Texas Grano is known for its large bulb size and mild flavour. This makes it appealing in urban and supermarket markets. It also adapts well to different conditions, making it a reliable choice for farmers in Kitale.

Farming Practices

Seed preparation

Farmers use beds raised to improve soil drainage and prevent waterlogging. This reduces the risk of fungal infection. Raised beds also provide better aeration and strong root growth, which leads to healthy onion plants.

Planting

Planting of onion is grown in a nursery for the first six weeks. Then, they are transplanted into the main area. Farmers usually put up before the rainy season to ensure adequate moisture for germination and development. About 12–18 inches of proper vacancy allows for healthy bulb formation.

Irrigation

Onion requires continuous water, especially during dry seasons. Drip irrigation is the best method. It reduces water dissipation, stabilizes moisture levels, and reduces fungal diseases that can occur with overhead water.

Pest control

General onion insects such as thrips and aphids can cause major damage. Organic pesticides and crop rotation are used to prevent farmers infection. Early identification and intervention helps protect yields and reduce losses.

Harvesting & Marketing

• Onions are harvested when their tops dry and fall over, showing they are mature.
• Proper curing (drying) helps extend shelf life and boost market value.
• Farmers sell onions in local markets, supermarkets, hotels, and urban centres for a steady income.

Challenges in Onion Farming

1. Price volatility

When a lot of farmers grow onions together, the market gets flooded. This reduces prices and reduces profits.

2. Insect and disease infection

Onions face pests such as thrips, aphids, nematodes and katvarms, which can reduce yields. Fungal diseases such as Downey Mildew, Purple Step, and Onion Jung also, especially in humid weather.

3. Competition from imported onion

Cheap onions of Tanzania often fill the market, making it difficult for local farmers to sell at competitive prices.

4. Climate and water dependence

Most farmers rely on rain, which makes the production of onions difficult throughout the year. Drought contains low yields and poor quality onions, while excess rain can cause waterlogging and fungal diseases.

5. High input cost

High costs for seeds, fertilizers, irrigation and insect control make it difficult for farmers to invest in onion cultivation.

6. Poor storage facilities

Many farmers are short of proper storage, forcing them to sell at low prices after the crop. Poor handling during harvesting can reduce market value, sprout.

7. Farmer inequality

Kitale lacks strong cooperative unions among farmers, making them difficult to negotiate better prices and deal with the challenges of the industry.

Overcoming Challenges in Onion Farming

• Farmers can use onion storage sheds to keep onions and sell them later when prices are higher.
• Using organic pesticides, crop rotation, and resistant onion varieties helps farmers control pests well.
• Farmers can join cooperatives and seek out export opportunities for better pricing.
• Setting up affordable drip irrigation systems lets farmers grow onions throughout the year.

Pig Farming in Kitale

Pig farming has become a very profitable business in Kitale. It attracts small and large farmers for many good reasons.

Table 5. Common Pig Breeds in Kitale

Breed	Growth Rate	Litter Size	Best Use
Large White	Rapid weight gain	10-12 piglets	High feed conversion efficiency
Landrace	Fast-growing, lean meat	8-10 piglets	Bacon and processed meat
Duroc	Hardy, disease-resistant	8-10 piglets	Suitable for outdoor farming

High reproduction rate

• Sows typically give birth to 8-12 piglets per litter
• Can produce 2-2.5 litters per year under good management
• Single sow can produce 20-30 piglets annually
• Rapid herd growth allows quick scaling of operations

Fast growth rate

• Piglets reach market weight (90-100kg) within 5-6 months
• Quick turnaround allows multiple production cycles yearly
• Faster returns compared to cattle and other livestock
• Efficient feed conversion (3:1 ratio) compared to other animals

Growing market demand

• Increasing pork consumption in urban centers
• Expanding tourism and hospitality sector creating steady demand
• Changing food preferences among younger Kenyans
• Rising middle class with disposable income for meat products

Common Pig Breeds in Kitale

Farmers in Kitale primarily raise three commercial pig breeds, each with specific advantages:

1. Large White

• Popular for high feed conversion efficiency
• Good mothering ability with large litter sizes
• Excellent growth rate in Kitale’s climate conditions
• Produces well-proportioned carcasses with good meat-to-fat ratio

2. Landrace

• Known for fast growth and lean meat production
• Long body frame yields more bacon
• Docile temperament makes handling easier
• Excellent for crossbreeding to improve other breeds

3. Duroc

• Exceptionally adaptable to local conditions
• More resistant to common diseases and parasites
• Produces high-quality marbled meat preferred by processors
• Hardy breed requiring less intensive management

Housing & Feeding Practices

Housing

Pigs should be kept in well-ventilated, clean, and spacious pens to prevent diseases and ensure comfort. The housing should:

• Be dry and free from extreme temperatures.
• Have proper drainage to keep the floor dry.
• Provide enough space to allow movement and growth.

Feeding

A good feeding program ensures fast growth and healthy pigs. Farmers in Kitale use:

• Maize bran, wheat bran, and kitchen waste as cost-effective feed sources.
• Commercial pig feeds that provide balanced nutrition for faster weight gain.
• Clean drinking water at all times to prevent dehydration and health issues.

Market Demand & Profitability

The pork market in and around Kitale offers diverse selling opportunities:

Primary market channels;

• Local butcheries purchasing live pigs for fresh meat
• Hotels and restaurants in Kitale and surrounding towns
• Processors producing sausages, bacon, and ham
• Individual consumers buying directly from farms

Value addition opportunities;

• Growing demand for processed products like sausages and bacon
• Local meat processing facilities offering slaughter services
• Specialty markets for organic and free-range pork

Financial returns;

• One sow can generate 150,000-200,000 KES annually
• Production costs typically range from 150-180 KES per kg live weight
• Market prices of 220-280 KES per kg live weight
• Return on investment possible within 12-18 months

Challenges in Pig Farming

Despite its profitability, pig farmers in Kitale face several significant challenges:

Feed costs:

• Feed represents 70-80% of total production costs
• Fluctuating prices of key ingredients like maize and soybean
• Limited availability of quality commercial feeds in rural areas
• Seasonal variations affecting feed availability

Disease management:

• African swine fever remains a constant threat with no vaccine
• Other diseases include swine erysipelas and parasitic infections
• Limited veterinary services specializing in pig health
• Biosecurity implementation challenges on small farms

Cultural perceptions:

• Traditional beliefs limiting consumption in certain communities
• Misconceptions about pork quality and safety
• Religious restrictions affecting market size in some areas

Beekeeping in Kitale (Apiculture)

Beekeeping is growing in popularity in Kitale. It requires little land and fits well with other farming activities. This makes it perfect for small-scale farmers who can raise bees alongside crops and livestock.

There is also a high demand for honey and beeswax locally and abroad. Honey is known for its health benefits, and beeswax is used in cosmetics, candle-making, and medicine. Beekeeping has low startup costs and provides a steady income, making it a profitable choice for farmers in Kitale.

Best Bee Species for Kitale

1. African Honey Bee

This species thrives in Kitale’s climate. It is known for producing high-quality honey. Beekeepers prefer it because of its high productivity and strong colony defense.

2. Stingless Bees

These bees create medicinal honey, valued for its antibacterial and healing properties. They are easy to manage, making them great for small-scale beekeeping. Their honey yield is lower, but it fetches higher prices in niche markets.

Setting Up a Beekeeping Venture

Hive Selection

Choosing the right hive is key for successful beekeeping. The most common hives in Kitale are:

• Langstroth Hives – These hives are popular for their high honey yields and easy management. They feature removable frames, which make honey harvesting less disruptive for the bees.
• Kenya Top-Bar Hives (KTBH) – These hives are affordable, easy to maintain, and effective for small-scale beekeepers. They don’t need costly equipment and are perfect for beginners.

Placement

Hives should be placed near flowering plants to ensure a constant nectar supply. Ideal locations include:

• Near fruit farms, forests, or flower gardens.
• Away from human activities to prevent disturbances.
• Sheltered from strong winds and direct sunlight to maintain hive stability.

Management

• Conduct regular hive inspections to check for pests like ants, wax moths, and mites.
• Keep the surrounding area pesticide-free to protect bees from chemical poisoning.
• Provide clean water sources near the hive to keep the colony hydrated.

Honey Harvesting & Processing

• Best time to harvest – Honey should be harvested during the dry season, when moisture content is low, to maintain high quality.
• Processing – The honey is filtered, packaged, and sold in supermarkets, health stores, and export markets. Some farmers also process beeswax for added income.

Challenges in Beekeeping

1. Pesticide Use

Many farms use chemical pesticides. These harm bee colonies and reduce honey production. Farmers should advocate for organic farming methods to protect pollinators.

2. Limited Knowledge

Many farmers lack training in modern beekeeping techniques. This leads to poor hive management and lower honey yields. Access to training and workshops can help improve productivity.

3. Climate Variability

Unpredictable weather patterns affect nectar production. This results in lower honey yields. Farmers can plant bee-friendly flowers to provide extra nectar sources.

4. Market Access

Small-scale beekeepers often struggle to access larger markets and sell their products at competitive prices. Forming beekeeping cooperatives helps farmers get better prices and reach bulk buyers.

How Farmers Can Succeed in Beekeeping

• Use modern hives to increase honey production.
• Learn beekeeping skills through training programs and cooperatives.
• Protect bees from pesticides by advocating for safe farming practices.
• Improve marketing strategies by branding and packaging honey for premium markets.

Conclusion

Farming in Kitale presents various opportunities in crop and livestock production. Maize is the main crop, but onion farming and beekeeping are also gaining popularity. Dairy, poultry, and pig farming offer steady income due to high demand for animal products.

Farmers face challenges such as price changes, diseases, high feed costs, and competition from imports. To succeed, they must use modern farming techniques, diversify their businesses, and improve market access.

The future of farming in Kitale depends on adopting technology, improving irrigation, and better farm management. This will help increase productivity and profitability while accessing larger markets.

• Maize farming is the backbone of Kitale’s agriculture.
• Onion farming and beekeeping are profitable alternatives.
• Livestock farming (dairy, poultry, pigs) provides consistent income.
• Price fluctuations, diseases, and high feed costs are major challenges.
• Technology, diversification, and market access are key to success.

Frequently Asked Questions