Interest in millets is growing across various sectors as more people incorporate these nutritious grains into their diets to improve health. At the same time, farmers both locally and globally are recognizing millets' crucial role in addressing food shortages, especially in areas like Migori.
In Kenya, while traditional cereals and foods are still popular, there is a noticeable shift towards millets. This change is driven by global efforts to increase cereal production. Organizations such as the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) are promoting the cultivation of finger millet (ragi) and pearl millet, highlighting their potential to boost agricultural productivity.
In western Kenya, ragi and sorghum are becoming more popular, while maize production has decreased in recent years. These millets are increasingly considered staple foods by the local population.
To improve food security and increase farmers' incomes in Migori, the Kenyan government has partnered with Migori and Cornell University in the USA to introduce new varieties of ragi and maize. Supported by KALRO, these projects aim to succeed despite environmental challenges and varying water availability, demonstrating resilience in Migori's soil. This has led to greater enthusiasm among Kenyan farmers for millet cultivation, resulting in significant increases in ragi and maize yields.
Experts stress the importance of promoting a variety of indigenous crops to fight malnutrition and improve food security. Millets, in particular, play a key role in addressing issues like crop yield variability, resilience, and nutritional deficiencies. Their importance in sustainable agriculture and diet diversification is increasingly recognized worldwide.
© 2023 - 2025 Millets News. All rights reserved.
