One of the standout innovations at the Makueni Agricultural Show 2026 was the Kiongozi Shubavu Hybrid Maize Seed, presented by Mr. Daniel Muthama Ndeti. The improved maize variety attracted many farmers who were eager to learn about a hybrid seed that matures in just three months, making it ideal for regions with short and unreliable rainfall seasons.

Mr. Ndeti explained that Kiongozi Shubavu is a high-yielding hybrid developed to help farmers maximize production within a short period. Its early maturity allows farmers to harvest before the rains end, reducing the risk of crop failure caused by prolonged dry spells. The variety also performs exceptionally well under irrigation, enabling year-round maize production and ensuring a steady food supply and income.

Beyond its impressive yield, the hybrid maize offers excellent food quality. The fresh maize is suitable for boiling and roasting, making it a favourite among households and roadside vendors. Once dried and milled, it produces quality flour that can be used to prepare ugali and other maize-based meals, adding value for both farmers and consumers.

Mr. Ndeti further emphasized that the crop provides benefits beyond the grain. After harvesting, the maize stalks and leaves can be processed into nutritious livestock feed, reducing fodder costs for farmers and minimizing waste. This makes Kiongozi Shubavu a valuable crop for mixed farming systems where crop and livestock production go hand in hand.

He encouraged farmers in Makueni and other semi-arid regions to embrace the hybrid seed as a climate-smart solution that delivers early harvests, quality grain, and multiple income opportunities. By combining food production, livestock feed, and adaptability to irrigation, Kiongozi Shubavu Hybrid Maize is helping transform agriculture and strengthen food security while improving the livelihoods of farming families across Kenya.