Varsity displays its best at Trade Fair

Abstract

The Nairobi International Trade Fair kicked off on Monday, September 30, with the University of Nairobi (UoN) displaying some of its innovations in line with the theme ‘Enhancing Technology in Agriculture and Industry for Food Security and National Growth.’

Among the most interesting innovations is that of the pesticide extractor by College of Biological and Physical Sciences. Through an exhaustive steam distillation apparatus, a pesticide is produced using stinging nettle and mexican marigold which are common weeds. The pesticide is used to control various plant diseases including alternaria blight, mildery mildew and aphids as well as caterpillars and ants.

Another innovation is from the Physics Department which uses mobile phone technology to farm. Known as e-farming, the technology allows farmers to irrigate their crops from anywhere at any time by using mobile phone controls.

According to Dr. Fred Otieno, Chairman, Exhibitions Committee, the University has entered different innovations for competition in various categories. Last year, UoN won first position in four categories and second position in two categories. The University also scored 29 first prizes, 29 second prizes and 9 third prizes in the farm and produce category and was the overall supreme champion for the pigs’ category.

The Trade Fair runs from September 30, 2013 to October 6, 2013 at Jamhuri Park off Ngong Road.