When farmers in Nandi County gather for a field day, it is more than just a meeting, it is a classroom in the open.
Through the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), these gatherings have become vital platforms for farmers seeking practical solutions, modern skills, and new market opportunities.
In October alone, NAVCDP–Nandi successfully organized field days across six sub-counties, drawing thousands of smallholder farmers eager to learn and transform their agricultural practices. The events have provided opportunities to share knowledge on climate-smart agriculture, pest control, animal husbandry, post-harvest handling, and agribusiness practices.
According to the County Project Coordinator, Jared Mutai, the initiative seeks to ensure that farmers not only produce more but also earn more through improved value chain management.
“We bring experts and experienced farmers together to share what works in our local conditions. The goal is to make farming more productive, profitable, and sustainable,” Mutai said.
During the field days, farmers visit demonstration plots and livestock exhibitions where they observe results firsthand, from improved seed varieties and soil health management to efficient irrigation and dairy production. Representatives from the Pest Control Products Board, Syngenta, Kenya Dairy Board, and Uzima Chicken have participated in these events, providing farmers with direct access to expert advice, certified inputs, and services.
Their involvement has ensured that farmers receive up-to-date guidance on safe pesticide use, quality seed varieties, dairy standards, and poultry management.
“I used to spray my crops without proper guidance, but now I understand safe and more effective pest control methods. My yields have improved and my costs have gone down,” said Noah Kerich, a farmer from Aldai Sub-County.
NAVCDP’s success in Nandi has been driven by collaboration between the County Department of Agriculture, local cooperatives, and national experts. The project aligns with the government’s food security agenda by helping farmers transition from subsistence to commercial farming.
To enhance coordination, farmers have been grouped into Common Interest Groups (CIGs) based on their value chains. These groups have joined NAVCDP-supported Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs), which have transformed livelihoods by providing affordable loans and farming capital at low interest rates.
Through these SACCOs, farmers can now invest in quality inputs, expand their enterprises, and cushion themselves against financial shocks.
“When we bring together farmers, researchers, and private sector players, everyone learns. These field days have become a hub of innovation. They have not only enhanced productivity but also restored hope among smallholder farmers,” said Dr. Kiplimo Lagat, County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture and Cooperative Development.
Local leaders have pledged continued support for the program, emphasizing that field days have become powerful tools for community learning.
“When farmers see the results with their own eyes, they believe in the process. We intend to make this a regular part of our agricultural calendar,” Dr. Lagat added.
After the successful sub-county field days, the county plans to crown the season with two mega events, one at Kaimosi ATC and another at Baraton University of Eastern Africa in Chemundu/Kapngetuny Ward.
“These events will bring together farmers, experts, and agribusiness stakeholders from across the region to celebrate progress and plan the next steps in transforming Nandi’s agricultural sector,” said Dr. Paul Sanga, Chief Officer for Agriculture.
By Geoffrey Satia and Joseline Chepkorir
