By: Makenah Kaburu

Photos By: Anncienta Mukiri

Known for the production of different varieties, such as the William Hybrid, Gross Mitchel (Kampala), Fhia 17, Giant Carendash, Uganda Green (Kiganda) and plantains commonly known as Gichagara, among others, Meru is the leading banana producer the country, with an estimated value of over Ksh. 6B as per the research done in 2016.

The County Government of Meru, under the stewardship of Governor Kiraitu Murungi has embarked on a quest to ensure the banana productivity and profitability grows much further than its standing stature. "Meru is currently producing an average of 30kgs per bunch, but the Governor recognizes there is potential to grow that to minimum of 60kgs per bunch, hence has directed that officers do capacity building, during which farmers have and continue to be taught how to increase productivity, how to curb pest infestations and such like challenges. This exercise is projected to drastically increase the number of kilos each farmer gets from one bunch of bananas, and with that, comes more money earned." Said Mr. Martin Munene, the chair person CTAC.

While representing the Governor during the stakeholder’s forum where those present got to elect representatives to sit in the Meru County Banana Platform, the Chief of Staff, Mr. Gideon Kimathi said the Governor is committed to help farmers reach their optimum potential and urged that they embrace value addition such as the production of crisps, assorted flours, and banana wines among other products. He promise that the Banana Winery already under construction will be soon be complete upon which production of wine will commence immediately.

The Chief of Staff also urged the stakeholders present to share ideas and learn from one another, as unity will see them grow much quicker than while divided. Further, "Going by last year’s Meru’s income, Ksh.6B came from banana production and we have potential to outdo ourselves. The government is therefore committed to continue working closely with the National Government and bring in partners such as the World Bank and many more, in order to add on to the allocated amount from the County Government kitty, in order to help grow the industry and by extension, go as far as provide quality seedlings to interested farmers." Said Mr. Kimathi and added "We want the banana value addition chain to grow; much like is the intent with macadamia, avocados, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes and fish. Our farmers will surely like that they will earn more money this way"

Mrs. Dionisia M’Eruaki, the CO Agriculture thanked those present and congratulated farmers for contributing to the high ranking of Meru County. She also noted how impressive it was that individuals had come up with by products from the locally available bananas. "I’m glad that people now have access to healthy flour that can be used for porridge, pancakes, ugali, cakes, bread and so many other products. I also like that the Mt. Kenya Community Foundation Youth Group based in Kathera, have gone ahead created employment for the youth where they came up with products such as mats, earrings, necklaces, paintings and other wall hangings. It is evident that banana farming has allowed creativity to thrive and be a source of income for the people of Meru." Said the Ms. Dionisia

Several farmers and business proprietors show cased their products such as the ICOBO Health Foods, the Mt. Kenya Community Foundation Youth Group and Wendo…., who explained that products they derived from the bananas are nutritious, gluten free, easily digestible, and are rich in potassium, magnesium, Vitamin B and Amino acids. Dr. Kiambi of ICOBO health Foods also showcased several products, one of which had already won a supply order from the Hungary, where they are expected to export the pan cake flour.