KENYA: SUCCESS STORY ON COCONUT

By Ondogo Wandagoa

Transmission of farmer voice programs has registered some success in Pwani FM after the station got a two month sponsorship on its vernacular sessions following audience response to farming tips. The vernacular session “dobe dobeza” got sponsorship in May  2010 after Mr. salim chiro, one of the vernacular hosts together with  FVR program producers started airing tips on coconut farming after attending a radio extension officers training in February. The station got overwhelming response from a number of listeners who were keen to know more about coconut farming after having listened to the first phase of transmission of Agricultural tips on Pwani FM.

 The main issues that the audience asked about included: better methods of planting, seed selection,  pest control, harvesting, marketing of coconut products and value addition. Farmers who listened to the Mijikenda show  asked a wide range of questions seeking to learn more about coconut farming and how they could increase production. With this realization the program host who had been trained by Farmer Voice Radio used this opportunity to approach the coconut development authority for expert information.

Salim says the desire to seek expert answers on coconut issues that farmers were asking him directly on air motivated him to approach the Kenya coconut development authority (KCDA) who are experts in coconut farming, for sponsorship of a special segment that would deal with coconut issues during his vernacular shows. The authority offered to sponsor the vernacular segment which runs for 2 hours, for a period of two months. During this time,  KCDA brought in experts for a live interview and call in sessions from Monday to Friday. Although the sponsorship ended in August 2010, KCDA has expressed interest in sponsoring  other session  later this financial year. The organization is also in process of getting funds to facilitate Pwani FM producers on a tour of all coconut growing areas to sensitize farmers to increase coconut farming.

This goes to show that Farmer voice radio programs and ideas, if well produced can increase station listenership and attract sponsorship for the station. Farmers in coast province need information even on things that producers might take for granted.
Collaboration with farmers’ organizations and firms/organizations that deal with farmers can enhance station content.