Farmers and residents of Kapkugerwet Ward in Kericho County have been urged to embrace climate-smart and high-value agricultural practices to improve food security, boost incomes, and promote sustainable environmental conservation.
The call was made during the distribution of over 5,000 grafted Hass avocado seedlings at Keongo Primary School, an event organised through a partnership between the Department of Environment, the county government, and Financing Locally Led Action (FLLoCA) facilitators.
Speaking to residents during the seedlings distribution exercise, the area Member of County Assembly(MCA), Martin Cheruiyot said the initiative marked a turning point for local agriculture, adding that the adoption of high-value crops would not only raise household incomes but also strengthen the region’s climate resilience.
“These seedlings are more than just trees; they are a foundation for change. They symbolise the beginning of a new chapter for Kapkugerwet residents — one that blends environmental care with economic growth. When we plant avocados, we are planting hope, we are investing in our families’ future, and we are securing a livelihood that can sustain generations to come. These trees, if well nurtured, will reward us abundantly, both in food and financial stability,” explained Cheruiyot.
He encouraged residents to take advantage of the training provided and to follow the agronomic guidelines shared by experts to guarantee success in the long term.
“If we handle these seedlings responsibly through proper soil preparation, irrigation, and pest control, they will transform our landscape and economy. In a few years, Kapkugerwet will not only be known for maize and tea but as a leading producer of quality avocados supplying both local and export markets,” he added.
During the event, agricultural officers demonstrated practical techniques on soil management, spacing, mulching, and fertilizer application, emphasising the importance of adopting climate-smart approaches that enhance productivity while protecting the ecosystem.
In an interview with the Kenya News Agency (KNA), Cheruiyot expressed optimism that the initiative would change the economic and social outlook of Kapkugerwet Ward.
“This project will transform lives in ways that go beyond income generation. With training, quality seedlings, and consistent support, households will gain the confidence and knowledge to venture into agribusiness with purpose. We are preparing our people not just to farm, but to farm wisely — to work with nature, not against it, and to embrace agriculture that feeds the family, protects the land, and earns a decent living,” reiterated Cheruiyot.
Beneficiary farmers lauded the programme, describing it as timely and forward-looking in light of the unpredictable weather patterns that have recently affected crop yields in the region.
“We have relied on tea and maize for many years, but with climate changes, the returns have been uncertain. This avocado programme gives us a new direction. It is an opportunity to grow something that is both profitable and sustainable. I believe it will improve our living standards and give the next generation a reason to stay on the land,” said Ms Emily Chebet, one of the beneficiaries.
The initiative, implemented under FLLoCA — a World Bank-supported programme — aims to enhance smallholder resilience, promote high-value crops, and link farmers to reliable markets. The organisation has been providing technical support and continuous training to ensure farmers adopt sustainable and profitable practices.
Cheruiyot further announced that similar seedling distributions will be extended to other parts of Kapkugerwet Ward in the coming weeks. The exercise will be complemented by a poultry programme aimed at diversifying income sources and improving nutrition.
“This approach combines environmental conservation with economic empowerment. When communities realize that protecting the environment brings tangible benefits, they become the first defenders of their natural resources. That is how development and conservation can go hand in hand,” said Cheruiyot.
Through such partnerships, FLLoCA continues to work with county governments to promote integrated farming systems that balance productivity with conservation. By linking local farmers to profitable value chains and sustainable farming models, the initiative is helping rural communities adapt to climate change while contributing to Kenya’s agricultural growth and environmental protection goals.
By Gilbert Mutai
