Uasin Gishu County in Kenya is making strides to connect its local farmers with exporters, opening doors for them to enter the highly profitable international market. This initiative, led by the County’s Department of Agriculture and Agribusiness, aims to strengthen the county’s agricultural sector, enhance the economic well-being of farmers, and promote sustainable growth across the region.
In a recent meeting held at the County Headquarters, county officials and horticultural crop exporters discussed strategies to help local farmers transition seamlessly into the export market. This move is expected to boost economic prospects for residents who rely on agriculture as a primary source of income. The discussion focused on linking farmers directly with exporters, removing intermediaries, and giving farmers greater control over pricing and profit margins. County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Edward Sawe, emphasized the department’s commitment to raising farmers’ economic status through such initiatives.
The county has identified high-demand horticultural products like passion fruits, macadamia nuts, avocados, herbs, and coffee as prime candidates for export. These crops were previously distributed to farmers free of charge by the county to promote their cultivation. With rising global demand, these crops offer considerable potential for the county’s farmers to diversify their income and achieve greater financial security. The county government is hopeful that farmers who tap into the export market will experience increased earnings, thereby fostering overall economic growth in Uasin Gishu.
One of the key discussions centered on the strategic advantage of using Eldoret International Airport as a logistics hub. Utilizing the airport could greatly benefit exporters and farmers by cutting down delivery times, preserving product freshness, and reducing overall transportation costs. Eldoret’s proximity to the farms would allow for faster shipment of perishable goods, meeting the international market’s quality and freshness standards. This logistical solution positions Uasin Gishu as a competitive player in the export market, offering high-quality horticultural products that reach international buyers in excellent condition.
Chief Officer for Agriculture, Mr. Elphas Kesio, encouraged farmers to embrace this opportunity and diversify their sources of income by tapping into the export market. He emphasized the county’s role in strengthening the agricultural value chain, supporting farmers in adhering to international quality standards, and ensuring that Uasin Gishu’s products are competitive on the global stage. With support from the county, farmers can gain a deeper understanding of market trends and consumer preferences in various regions worldwide, enabling them to produce crops that align with global demand.
To further support farmers in this initiative, the county has deployed a sufficient number of agricultural extension officers across the region. These officers are tasked with equipping farmers with the best practices for horticultural crop production, ensuring that they meet the quality standards required in the export market. Extension officers will also serve as valuable resources for farmers, providing guidance on issues such as pest control, sustainable farming techniques, and crop handling to maintain quality throughout the supply chain.
Through these efforts, Uasin Gishu County is looking to transform its agricultural landscape and enable farmers to become more self-sustaining. By empowering local farmers with the resources and knowledge to enter the export market, the county government is promoting resilience and economic independence within its communities. The initiative aligns with broader goals of rural development and poverty alleviation, as it directly impacts the livelihoods of residents who depend on agriculture.
Additionally, this export-focused initiative reflects Uasin Gishu’s broader ambitions to position itself as a hub for high-quality agricultural products. By building relationships with international markets and improving logistical processes, the county is setting a foundation for long-term economic stability. The success of this endeavor would not only benefit the farmers but would also contribute to the county’s reputation as a reliable source of premium horticultural products.
As the export market for horticultural goods continues to grow, Uasin Gishu County is taking proactive steps to ensure its farmers are well-positioned to compete. The government’s commitment to building direct connections with exporters and leveraging Eldoret International Airport as a key logistical asset reflects a comprehensive approach to modernizing agriculture in the region. This initiative is a vital step toward creating a more prosperous and resilient agricultural sector in Uasin Gishu, benefiting both the local economy and the individual livelihoods of farmers across the county.
