In this episode of Jijuze, Brian discusses the major shift in Kenya's agricultural landscape with the introduction of the Kenya Integrated Agriculture Management Information System, or KIAMIS. Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, KIAMIS, a digital registry, includes data for over 7.1 million smallholder farmers and plays a crucial role in determining who is eligible for subsidized fertilizers. Farmers communicate with the system using the USSD code, *616*3#, which also validates critical farming information. Despite the system's aim to eliminate fraudulent activities and improve efficiency, the transition has been challenging for many farmers, with issues arising from necessary secondary validations and the demanding technical literacy requirements. As the government stands firm on its digital-first approach, farmers are gently reminded that without incorporation into the system, they can't pursue their agricultural activities. The episode ends by urging listeners to visit the show notes for more information and to share their thoughts or questions about the new era of Kenyan farming.
