Growing Sorghum in Mandera

Soil suitability analysis based on Mandera's nutrient profile

Mandera County is a challenging environment for Sorghum (soil-match score 28/100) and will need significant amendment before planting. At an average pH of 8.38 the soil sits above Sorghum's preferred 5–8 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 Sorghum's requirements, so a maintenance fertilizer programme is enough. Sorghum prefers clay soils, while Mandera is largely sandy, so drainage and organic-matter management matter more here. Mandera receives approximately 180 mm/year — well below Sorghum's minimum of 250 mm — so supplemental irrigation would be essential for this crop. At current prices (about KES 68/kg) and a typical 1,000 kg/acre yield, a well-managed Sorghum crop here can gross roughly KES 68,000 per acre.