Potato farmers in Nyandarua County have rejected a recent report by Egerton University highlighting the use of harmful pesticides in potato farms in the areas.
The farmers from Nyakio Ward in South Kinangop are accusing Egerton University researchers of excluding them from the study and publishing misleading information.
During a community meeting in the ward, farmers said they were never approached or consulted during the data collection phase, questioning the credibility and basis of the findings.
“No one came to our farms to ask us about the pesticides we use. So where exactly was this research done?” one farmer asked, expressing fears that the report is aimed at crippling their potato-based agribusiness.
They emphasized that potato farming is their only source of income, enabling them to educate their children, pay medical bills, and support their families. The farmers called on the university and other research institutions to engage them directly before publishing reports that may impact their livelihoods.
“This is not just a report—it’s our future they’re playing with. We work hard every season to feed this country,” another farmer added.
Their concerns were echoed by Nyandarua Governor Dr. Moses Kiarie Badilisha, who dismissed the Egerton University report as “vague, lacking scientific anchor, and completely misleading.”
Governor Badilisha criticized the report’s methodology and accused the researchers of failing to involve relevant stakeholders, including state agencies and local farmers. He said such omissions raise serious questions about the report’s credibility and purpose.
“It is unfortunate that such a sensitive matter was handled carelessly without involving authorities on the ground. This kind of approach risks causing unnecessary alarm and damaging the county’s reputation,” he said.
The Governor defended Nyandarua’s agricultural practices, noting that the county works closely with the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) to ensure responsible pesticide use. He highlighted ongoing farmer training programs and the county’s initiative to produce certified, disease-free potato seeds as proof of its commitment to safe and sustainable agriculture.
He urged researchers to collaborate with county governments and local communities before releasing findings that could negatively impact an entire region.
“Nyandarua is a leading producer of potatoes in Kenya. We have invested heavily in modernizing agriculture, and we will not allow unfounded reports to sabotage the hard work of our farmers,” he said.
