A Comprehensive Guide to Maize Production
in Food SystemsAbout this course
Course overview
Maize farming is a cornerstone of Kenya’s agricultural landscape, contributing significantly to food security, household livelihood and Kenya's economy. It is one of the top cereal in terms of production volume. As a versatile and multi-purpose crop, it is predominantly used for animal feed worldwide but holds significant importance as a staple food, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. This manual is designed to support a wide range of stakeholders involved in the maize value chain, providing practical and comprehensive guidance tailored to Kenya’s diverse farming conditions. It offers a deep understanding of maize cultivation, from the specific conditions and resources required for farming in different geographical regions to strategies that enhance productivity.
The manual addresses current unsustainable practices in maize farming and offers recommendations for climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable approaches. It is an essential resource for both smallholder and large-scale farmers looking to optimize yields and adopt more sustainable practices. Agricultural students and professionals will gain valuable insights that complement their academic and research endeavors. Moreover, agricultural scientists and researchers will find this manual a useful reference for best practices and innovations in maize production, supporting their ongoing work and contributions to the field.
Course Objectives
To provide an understanding of maize production in Kenya, covering key agricultural practices and regional considerations.
To strengthen skills in sustainable maize production techniques, promoting environmentally friendly and climate-resilient farming practices.
To provide a detailed overview of the current landscape of maize production in Kenya, including trends and challenges.
To build proficiency in post-harvest management, with a focus on strategies for reducing losses and improving food safety.
Expected outcomes
Improved understanding of maize production in Kenya, including region-specific practices and environmental considerations.
Strengthened capacity to implement sustainable practices along the maize value chain, promoting climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
Enhanced skills in applying best post-harvest strategies, effectively minimizing losses and waste maintaining quality.
Increased ability to identify and analyze gaps in maize production, fostering opportunities for further research and innovation.
Target audience.
Smallholder farmers
Agricultural students
Agricultural scientists
Researchers
Upon successful completion of the course, a digital certificate will be awarded.
Suggested by top companies
Top companies suggest this course to their employees and staff.
Comments (0)
This module offers a comprehensive introduction to maize production, exploring the fundamental aspects of growing maize. Learners will gain insights into the significance of maize in agriculture, including its role in food security and economic development. The module covers key topics such as the optimal growing conditions, including soil types, climate requirements. Additionally, it introduces various maize varieties and their suitability for different environments, laying the groundwork for understanding how to achieve successful maize cultivation.
This module provides an in-depth overview of essential good agricultural practices (GAPs) focusing on land preparation and soil health. It is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and techniques necessary for preparing land effectively and maintaining optimal soil conditions for successful crop production.
This module offers detailed guidance on the essential planting techniques for successful maize production. It covers the importance of correct spacing, planting depth, and the methods that lead to optimal crop establishment and growth.
This module provides comprehensive guidance on the effective use of fertilizers to support optimal maize growth. It covers the timing of fertilizer application, methods for ensuring efficient nutrient uptake, and best practices to enhance plant health and yield.
This module focuses on effective strategies for managing diseases and pests in maize production, with an emphasis on integrated approaches to ensure healthy crops and optimal yields. Participants will explore Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, weeding practices, and other sustainable methods to maintain crop health.
This module focuses on the critical aspects of harvesting maize, providing learners with in-depth knowledge on identifying the right time for harvesting based on key maturity indicators and exploring various harvest and post-harvest methods to maximize yield and quality. It provides a clear understanding of maturity indicators.
This video shows harvest and post-harvest practices that every maize farmer must adopt for zero waste and loss.
This module introduces learners to the fundamental concepts of sustainable maize farming practices, highlighting their impact on environmental health, economic growth, and productivity. It covers both the theoretical principles and practical methods farmers can adopt to achieve eco-friendly and economically viable maize production.
Learn about 7 steps that are critical in maize production in Kenya.
