The Machakos ASK Show 2026 highlighted the important role of young people in agriculture, with students from Machakos Comprehensive School demonstrating practical farming technologies through their active participation in the school's 4K Club.
One of the students Joseph Ndeto, showcased a bucket irrigation system, a simple but effective method designed to save water while improving crop production. The system involves placing a bucket at an elevated position, allowing water to flow through pipes using gravity. Valves attached to the pipes help regulate the amount of water reaching crops, ensuring efficient irrigation.
According to the students, the irrigation system is being used in their school garden, particularly in vegetable production. They explained that the method conserves water and can easily be adopted by households for kitchen gardening, especially in areas experiencing water shortages.
The learner also demonstrated the use of paper mulching, a sustainable farming practice applied in growing crops such as sukuma wiki and spinach. Through the mulching technique, the soil retains moisture for longer periods, reducing the amount of water needed for irrigation. The students noted that paper mulch also helps suppress weeds and can contribute to pest management, making crop production easier and more environmentally friendly.
The presentation attracted the attention of visitors who were impressed by the students' understanding of climate-smart agriculture and resource conservation.
The learners expressed gratitude to their school and the 4K Club program for equipping them with practical agricultural knowledge and skills. They said the experience is helping shape their future by exposing them to modern farming techniques and encouraging them to view agriculture as a viable career path.
The exhibition demonstrated how empowering young people with agricultural skills can contribute to a more food-secure and sustainable future for Kenya.
