Makueni mango farmers received a major boost in the fight against fruit fly infestation after Trademark Africa, through East Africa Market Development Associates(EAMDA), with support from the European Union, donated 15,000 fruit fly pheromone traps to the county.
The consignment was officially received by the Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, who noted that the intervention comes at the peak of the mango production season and will help increase yields, reduce post-harvest losses and improve farmers’ incomes.
The traps, which contain pheromones that attract fruit flies to a biopesticide killing chamber, offer an environmentally friendly solution.
Unlike excessive pesticide use, which is harmful to human health and the environment, the traps provide safe and sustainable control of the destructive pest.
Speaking during the handover, Mulili, accompanied by Agriculture CECM Elizabeth Muli, appreciated the partnership with Trademark Africa in empowering farmers, creating jobs and driving Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.’s agenda of boosting agricultural productivity.
