Growing Sesame (Simsim) in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Sesame (Simsim) (soil-match score 19/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Sesame (Simsim)'s preferred 5.5–7 range, which can limit uptake of phosphorus and micronutrients. Nitrogen (0.53 g/kg), phosphorus (38.3 mg/kg) and potassium (420 mg/kg) all meet Sesame (Simsim)'s requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. The county's predominantly sandy soils suit Sesame (Simsim), which favours sandy. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Sesame (Simsim)'s minimum of 300 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 350/kg) and a typical 180 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Sesame (Simsim) crop here can gross roughly KES 63,000 per acre.