Daystar University poised to exploit its agriculture potential

Don Janzen appreciating the various species of trees during the tour of Athi River Campus.  Showing him around are  L-R-Dr. Kenendy Ongaro, Dr. Mary Mogute, Sam Oduor and Jean Murungi

Don Janzen, an Agricultural consultant and missionary missionaries based in Juba, South Sudan, visited Daystar University recently to technically advice how the University can exploit its agricultural potential. 

Don visited courtesy of Scott Erickson and Alan Cooke, the Executive Director of Daystar US, after hearing about Daystar University’s large tracks of land at the Main Campus Athi River.

During the 28th February visit, Don was hosted by the Dean, School of Applied Human Sciences, Dr. Kennedy Ongaro, HoD Development Studies Dr. Mary Mogute, the Vice-chancellor’s Research and Protocol Officer Mrs. Grace Liyai, and the Public Relations Officer, Ms. Jean Murungi.

The team took him on a guided tour of the Main Campus-Athi River where Don appreciated the projects being implemented at the Athi River Campus. He was specifically interested in the beautification and afforestation project and kept giving advice on how the University can sustain the trees grown in the semi-arid area.

Don is keen to work with Daystar University, specifically with the Department of Development Studies to implement some farming projects on the expansive Athi River Campus. Some of the areas he would like to get involved in include:
1.      Consulting and supporting Daystar University in matters Agriculture.
2.      Networking for Daystar University
3.      Connecting Daystar University with experts - especially in chicken farming.
4.      Conduct online / virtual trainings on agriculture
5.      Share information and photos on the latest farming methods
6.      Conduct weekly training for workers

 “With the right techniques people can utilize land well,” he said, further advising the University to adapt best practices in farming and tree planting, such as mulching, adding nitrogen to the soil around the plant, growing legumes such as jack beans around the trees, using plastic paper to preserve water, and water harvesting. Additionally, he urged the University to train dogs to keep the monkeys away, among others techniques.

“Until you are sure you can make profit, hiring labour will take you down,” he advised. He was of the opinion that the University can use students to provide labour  while helping them to learn farming techniques as they raise tuition.

Don and his wife are missionaries based in Juba in South Sudan where they work with the Church and communities to implement sustainable agriculture.