Introduction to Agriculture

What is agriculture?

Agriculture is the science and art of growing crops and rearing animals to meet human needs. In the Junior School CBC (KICD), Grade 7 learners begin by understanding what farming is and why it matters before learning practical skills.

Branches of agriculture

• Crop production - growing maize, beans, tea, coffee, vegetables.
• Animal production - keeping cattle, goats, poultry, bees.
• Fisheries - fish farming and fishing.
• Forestry - growing and caring for trees.
• Agricultural engineering and economics - machines, farm planning and marketing.

Importance of agriculture in Kenya

1. Food security - it provides food for the population.
2. Employment - most rural Kenyans earn a living from farming.
3. Income and foreign exchange - tea, coffee, flowers and horticultural produce are exported.
4. Raw materials - cotton for textiles, sugarcane for sugar, hides for leather.
5. Development of other sectors - transport, markets and industry grow from farming.

Types of farming

• Subsistence farming: producing mainly for family use.
• Commercial farming: producing mainly for sale.
• Mixed farming: growing crops and keeping animals together on one farm.

Worked example

Mama Achieng grows maize and beans on a small plot and sells the extra at the market. She keeps two goats. Her farm is mixed (crops and animals) and mainly subsistence, with a small commercial part.

Tools and safety

Common hand tools include the jembe (hoe), panga (machete), spade and rake. Always wear protective clothing, wash hands after farm work, and store tools safely.

Try it

• List three farm products eaten in your home and say which branch each belongs to.
• Name two ways agriculture helps your community.
• State one difference between subsistence and commercial farming.
• Visit a school garden and name four tools you see.