A Research Officer at KARI- Mtwapa deployed in the Horticulture and Industrial Crops Programme. Is in charge of the post-harvest and value addition section whose responsibility is to develop farmer friendly technologies aimed at adding value to agricultural products. They include the utilization of coconut by-products such as husks and shell to produce high value products such as doormats, wine glasses, earrings and bungles. Others include technology development and training of farmers/ farmer groups to process edible products from mango and other fruits, dairy, cashew nut, vegetable, coconut and cassava products with an aim of increasing their shelf life so as to enable the farmer realize more income. Have been involved in developing suitable designs and fabrication of simple, low cost processing machines/ equipment that are affordable to the common farmer in collaboration with other stakeholders. These include solar driers, cassava chippers and graters, cashew nut drum roasters and shellers as well as charcoal coolers. Is also the Field coordinator of the FARM- Africa funded mango project aimed at empowering farmers in Kilifi and Malindi districts to commercialize the mango sub-sector. Has trained farmers to construct water-harvesting structures (water pans) to harvest run-off water for use alongside drip irrigation units for growing high value crops such as vegetables. Has trained oxen to use farm implements for various field operations. Is also the Centre maintenance officer charged with the responsibility of repair and maintenance of buildings machinery, water systems, irrigation systems, office furniture and equipment. [more...]