KALRO launches digital soil fertility mapping in Murang’a ahead of countywide rollout
By Zablon Oyugi
The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), in collaboration with the Murang’a County Government, has launched a training programme for County Agricultural Extension Officers, IT officers and agripreneurs to prepare for a Digital Soil Fertility Mapping Exercise scheduled to begin on February 23, 2026.
The exercise will be conducted across all 35 wards in Murang’a County and is designed to generate accurate, ward-specific soil fertility data. Officials say the information will help guide farmers on proper nutrient management while strengthening evidence-based agricultural planning and policy formulation at the county level.
KALRO technical experts will lead the exercise, with oversight to ensure data accuracy, digital efficiency and quality control. The technical team is led by Dr. Daniel Gikaara, a soil scientist and cluster team leader, alongside James M. Mureithi, KALRO’s Research Extension Liaison Officer for Murang’a County.
They are supported by Reuben Mwangi from Natural Resource Management (NRM) and Gloria Amati, the IT expert overseeing the digital components of the exercise.
Speaking during the launch, Paul Kimani Mugo, the County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Trade and Cooperatives, said the initiative marks a significant step toward modernizing agricultural decision-making.
“Reliable soil data is essential for tailoring fertilizer recommendations to local conditions, reducing input waste and improving farm productivity,” said Mugo.
The event was also attended by Dr. Apollo Maina, Peter Nyamora, and Regina Thumaine, who echoed the importance of data-driven approaches to soil health management.
County and KALRO leaders expressed optimism that the digital soil fertility mapping will not only guide fertilizer policy at both county and national levels, but also strengthen soil health management, improve crop nutrition and ultimately boost agricultural productivity across Murang’a County.