Filed work at Kaguru ATC – Carrying out Uniformity test
Improper application of irrigation water is the major cause of soil salinity, increased labour inefficiency and thus, reduced water productivity among SME farmers in Kenya. These are the sentiments that informs a team of researcher from Jomo Kenya university of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) through its Water Research and Resource Center (WARREC) to carry out cutting edge research testing irrigation system efficiency in Meru County.
In this research, JKUAT is partnering with SNV through the Smart Water for Agriculture (SWA) to assist Meru County achieve food security and nutrition as one of the Government’s big four agenda. This Field work was conducted from 27th February to 2nd March 2019 in two sites of Meru County.
The research is aimed at assessing a rotar sprayer’ – SME targeted mini-pivot system to determine with scientific evidence, that the technology will optimize water application, reduce labour requirements, and be acceptable to Kenya’s SME farmers – especially for women farmers.
Field work – Carrying out Infiltration test
Led by Prof. Patrick Home, the team conducted field work at Kaguru ATC and in Timau area. Speaking during the exercise, Prof. Patrick Home commended the research team and the project partners citing research as key to unlocking agriculture potential in the Counties.
Session during field work
The research implementing team were Prof. Patrick Home of Soil Water and Environmental engineering Depart (SWEE), Dr. Jackline Ndiiri – Soil Water and Environmental engineering Depart (SWEE) and Mr. Wycliffe Nyang’au of Water Research and Resource Center (WARREC).
Session during Field work