KALRO to establish Ksh200 million Research Centre in Nyeri to boost crop and livestock productivity

The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) is set to construct a Ksh200 million agricultural research center in Kieni, Nyeri County, aimed at bringing advanced farming technologies closer to local farmers.

KALRO Board Chairman Dr. Thuo Mathenge said the new facility will be the organization’s 65th research hub nationwide and will serve both crop and livestock farmers from Nyeri and neighbouring counties.

“This center will bring our services closer to the people. Nyeri is a major coffee and tea-growing region, and we want to ensure farmers access better, high-yielding varieties that improve their income and maintain our standards of quality production,” said Dr. Mathenge.

He spoke in Nyeri during a courtesy visit to Governor Mutahi Kahiga alongside KALRO Director General Dr. Eliud Kireger and other senior officials, ahead of an MoU signing between KALRO and the county government scheduled for October 22.

The county has already leased 20 acres of land at the Agriculture Mechanization Services in Naru Moru for the construction of the center.

Governor Kahiga welcomed the project, saying it will play a critical role in advancing climate-smart agriculture and strengthening food security in the region.

“We want KALRO to move fast so we can establish this center that will serve Nyeri and neighbouring counties. Continuous research on the right seedlings, feeds, and livestock medicine is vital for sustainable farming,” he said.

The governor also revealed that KALRO plans to open an on-site shop where farmers can easily access subsidized agricultural products and materials.

The upcoming research centre is expected to promote innovation, boost farm productivity, and empower smallholder farmers across the Mt. Kenya region with practical solutions to emerging agricultural challenges.