Kisumu Governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o has called for the Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) National Show to become a year-round event instead of a five-day exhibition.
Speaking while flagging off preparations for the show outside his office, Prof Nyong’o said extending the event throughout the year would provide greater benefits to farmers, researchers and other stakeholders.
He urged organisers to adopt a model similar to that used in China, where agricultural exhibitions continue throughout the year and allow participants to apply and test innovations showcased during the events.
The governor said exhibitors in China return to farms to experiment with technologies and practices they have seen at exhibitions.
Prof Nyong’o, who is the patron of the Kisumu ASK show, also pledged to facilitate a visit to China for ASK Kisumu Branch Chairperson Rose Omondi to enable her to learn more about the approach.
He commended the current leadership of the society, describing it as more proactive and receptive.
Omondi said this year’s exhibition had been rebranded as a national event and would attract exhibitors from government ministries, state corporations, county governments and neighbouring countries.
She said learning institutions, including universities, colleges and schools from several counties, were also expected to participate.
The exhibition will be open to the public from 22 to 26 July, with preparations now complete.
Omondi said adequate security arrangements had been put in place and that organisers were engaging additional exhibitors from Bomet, Vihiga, Kakamega and other neighbouring counties.
This year’s theme is “Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth.”She said visitors should expect new innovations in agriculture and industry.
Omondi said the ASK show had traditionally provided a platform for showcasing agriculture, innovation, enterprise and local talent while bringing communities together.
However, she acknowledged that the event had struggled to recover after the Covid-19 pandemic.
She said the society had adopted a new strategy and a renewed approach aimed at restoring the show’s status and attracting more exhibitors and visitors.
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