Scientists produce new bioherbicide to control Striga weed | Heartbeat

Smallholder maize farmers in Western Kenya can now breathe a sigh of relief following the introduction of Kichawi Kill, a bioherbicide that has been proven to control the spread of the Striga Weed. The farmers say their yield has increased by at least 50 percent after using the bio-herbicide, which has led to them being empowered as they can now rake in profits. But researchers now say more still needs to be done to eradicate the weed, which causes over $80 million in losses per annum in Western Kenya. And now it has spread to other parts of the country. Hellen Aura visited Kakamega County and filed this report.
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Episodes
Nakuru farmers using social media to learn emerging tech that supports climate-resilient agriculture Since the structural adjustment programs in the 90s, agricultural extension services to farmers have been on the decline. Even with devolution, farmers have complained about the lack of support from government-hired agronomists and have been left to seek those services independently at a cost. However, in Nakuru County, smallholder farmers are mobilizing through WhatsApp groups to organize trainings and farm visits to learn emerging technologies that support climate-resilient agriculture. October 30, 2024
On the brink of extinction Deep within Laikipia County, located in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Najin and her daughter Fatu are the last remaining northern white rhinos on Earth. Their existence is hanging by a thread as their species teeters on extinction. Only five years ago, Sudan, the final male northern white rhino, passed away of old age. His death marked the end of any chance for natural reproduction, leaving Najin and Fatu to face the grim reality of their species' impending demise. Despite being younger and more fertile, Fatu is still unable to conceive due to the harsh nature of her circumstances. On The Heartbeat, Mercy Chelangat looks into the desperate attempts to save the northern whites from Extinction. May 7, 2024
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