Nyanza farmers adopt crop rotation and flood control to boost income

Farmer Kennedy Okoth notes that growers are moving away from relying solely on rice, incorporating maize and sunflower into their planting cycles. This shift allows for more productive land use throughout the year, as land previously left idle after rice harvests is now utilized for other crops, spreading financial risk. The construction of dikes and canals along the River Nyando has significantly reduced flooding, preventing crop destruction and encouraging farmers to invest more confidently in their land.

Improved roads have also made it easier and cheaper to transport produce and access markets. Okoth believes that sustained progress in these areas, along with continued investment in irrigation, water management, affordable inputs, and stable markets, will lead to better household well-being for farmers in the region.