PlantVillage's Biological Control of Fall Armyworm Impresses Attendees at Moi University Anniversary Celebrations
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PlantVillage Kenya made a significant impact at the recently concluded Moi University Eldoret Kenya anniversary celebrations. The event, themed "An Inspiring Legacy: Embracing Technology and Innovation for Sustainability," attracted a diverse audience of government officials, farmers, and students. At the heart of the celebrations, our team of dedicated scientists proudly showcased our groundbreaking parasitoid innovation for the biological control of Fall Armyworm (FAW) in maize crops.
Innovative Biological Control of FAW
The use of parasitoids is a sustainable and environmentally friendly method to combat the Fall Armyworm, a pest that threatens maize production across Africa.
“This innovative approach involves deploying natural enemies to control pest populations, This can be a smart approach as chemical control can be made more difficult by the behavior of the caterpillar to go deep into the plant”' Frankline Areba, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) lead at PlantVillage
During the celebrations, our tent received notable visitors, including Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education and Research in Kenya, and Moi University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kosgei. Both were deeply impressed by how our young scientists are leveraging technology such as AI and cloud computing innovation to drive sustainable agriculture.
"I am impressed by the innovative work being done by the young scientists at PlantVillage. Their use of technology and biological control methods to combat Fall Armyworm shows the power of integrating scientific advancements with agricultural practices which is crucial for our food security and the future of farming in Kenya” Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala
Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education and Research in Kenya, and Moi University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kosgei visiting our tent
Empowering Farmers Through Innovation
The support from USAID’s Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Current and Emerging Threats to Crops (CETC IL) has fueled our efforts. With their backing, PlantVillage Kenya, a private company registered in Kenya, has leveraged the model for surveillance, outreach, and sustainable solutions against Fall Armyworm. This model not only addresses the immediate threat posed by FAW but also empowers smallholder and subsistence farmers to adapt to the accelerating conditions of climate change.
PlantVillage Kenya now boasts of three fully equipped parasitoids rearing labs in Busia, Machakos and Uasin Gishu counties, facilities which have and continues to open up opportunities for young scientists to advance the research in crop pest control.
PlantVillage young scientists Lauryn Atieno and Dennis Rongoei explaining to farmers our parasitoid innovation for the biological control of Fall Armyworm (FAW) in maize crops
The real-world impact of our initiatives is best illustrated through testimonials from farmers like Solomon Kosgei from Kesses, Uasin Gishu County. Solomon had long struggled with FAW, finding traditional pesticides ineffective. After attending training sessions by PlantVillage and using parasitoids together with high quality hybrid seeds we sold him, he saw a significant reduction in pest populations. His maize crops now have a 90% germination and exhibit a healthy growth rate.
The enthusiastic response at Moi University’s anniversary celebrations and the positive outcomes experienced by farmers like Solomon Kosgei highlight the potential of PlantVillage’s initiatives to drive sustainable agricultural practices. By scaling up the biological control of FAW and engaging the youth in these efforts, PlantVillage is paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector in Africa. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability continues to be at the forefront of our mission. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to empowering farmers, protecting crops, and promoting practices that ensure long-term food security.
Dr. Ernest Kipkemei, Dean of the School of Agriculture at Moi University, at our tent to learn about our groundbreaking parasitoid innovation for biological control of Fall Armyworm.
Join Us in the Fight Against FAW
We invite everyone to join us in this crucial fight against Fall Armyworm and support our efforts to promote sustainable agriculture. For more information on our parasitoid solutions, training sessions, and how to get involved, please contact us via SMS/Call at +254715034782.