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Over 100,000 people in Laikipia, Meru and Kirinyaga counties are expected to benefit directly from a partnership between the devolved units and Farm Africa to implement a project that is set to revolutionise farming practices in those areas.

Women and youth are among thousands of smallholder farmers expected to benefit during the period the partnership will be implemented by Farm Africa and funded by Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).

The project known as the “sustainable agricultural value chain enterprises (SAVES)” was launched yesterday in Nanyuki town in Laikipia county.

Project coordinator

Briefing the Laikipia County acting agriculture executive, Edwin Kasoo earlier at the County headquarters in Rumuruti, Farm Africa project coordinator Patrick Nyaga said the project is expected to directly benefit 120,000 farmers with 50 percent of them being women and 20 percent youth.

Another 400,000 people are expected to benefit indirectly during SAVES implementation in the three counties.

He said the project aims to enhance sustainable farming practices, empower smallholder farmers with best farming practices and improve market access and profitability.

“Additionally, the project will create 12,616 jobs, significantly contributing to economic empowerment and financial security in the County,” Nyaga said.

Winnie Gathoni who is a programme officer with AGRA said the initiative will link farmers to buyers, reduce reliance on intermediaries, and utilize digital tools for timely market data.

This will enable farmers to make informed decisions, negotiate better prices, and reduce post-harvest losses. She said the project will also focus on promoting the cultivation of high-demand crops to ensure a reliable market and mitigate risks of oversupply and price volatility.

Farming techniques

To restore soil health, boost carbon sequestration, the project will promote climate-smart farming techniques such as regenerative agriculture and agroforestry.

“These practices aim to enhance biodiversity, leading to a more sustainable agricultural environment”, said Dr Abed Kiwia of AGRA.

Kiwia who is a programme officer at the organization said there is need to go back to the drawing board to empower farmers on how to navigate the weather that is swigging from drought to flooding in short periods.

“For a long time we have been advocating for drought resistance crop farming but flooding has become common these days due to climate change,” he said The project will provide training programs and support to farmers through 600 village-based advisors and also equip farmers with the skills needed for sustainable farming and agribusiness.