Farmers across the country are being encouraged to plant only certified seeds to ensure productivity and strengthen food security, as the country continues to grapple with uncertainty arising from global security dynamics.
To support this effort, Bayer EA has partnered with major agrovets and seed suppliers nationwide to ensure that its DEKALB seed varieties are accessible to farmers.
During an event held at Malava Market, Kakamega on Monday, March 30, which brought together farmers from the area, Bayer EA representatives emphasized the importance of certified seeds and proper crop protection products in achieving high yields.
Isaac Kosgei from the sales department at Bayer EA Western Region noted that the campaign has attracted a large number of participants and will continue expanding to cover more areas across Western Kenya. He added that the initiative will reward participants with prizes such as motorbikes, mobile phones, and a grand prize of a pickup truck.
The company introduced a “scratch and win” campaign, where farmers who purchase a packet of maize seeds can scratch a hidden code for a chance to win prizes ranging from motorcycles to a brand-new pickup.
“We are doing this to ensure farmers use genuine seeds this season. All you need to do is buy DK seeds, scratch the hidden code on the packet, and stand a chance to win exciting prizes, as you have seen today,” Kosgei remarked.
The event, first launched in Kericho, has already seen winners, including one who received a motorcycle.
According to Rose Kundu, farmers can participate by purchasing a packet of DK seed, scratching the code, and sending it to 1393 to receive further instructions.
One of the winners, Peter Mutalakhani, who received a brand-new motorcycle in Malava, encouraged fellow farmers to adopt the seed brand not only for the prizes but also for improved yields.
He noted that DEKALB maize seeds are high-yielding, drought-tolerant hybrids that mature quickly after planting.