Mwala-based farmer Bernard Musyoki has been named the National Gold Winner of the prestigious Tujiamini 2.0 Community Awards for his innovative agricultural solution.
Musyoki walked home with Sh1 million for the project, which helps smallholder farmers in arid and semi-arid areas beat unpredictable rainfall and improve food security.
The award was unveiled by SportPesa as the Tujiamini 2.0 programme concluded its nationwide tour, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting grassroots-led solutions.
Through the initiative, over Sh30 million has been invested in community projects across the country, supporting initiatives in agriculture, sports, creative industries, entrepreneurship, and social impact.
Musyoki’s project focuses on early seedling propagation, allowing farmers to transplant crops immediately at the onset of rains. By staying 30 to 45 days ahead of the planting season, farmers significantly reduce crop maturity time, improve yields, and minimise the risk of total crop failure.
The initiative supports maize, cereal, and vegetable farming and has already created five permanent and eight part-time jobs for youth and women in the local community.
Speaking after receiving the award, Musyoki said the funding would enable him to scale up the project and reach more farmers.
“This support gives us the capacity to expand what is already working. In ASAL regions, timing is everything. With this funding, we can increase seedling production, reach more farmers, and safeguard livelihoods that depend entirely on rainfall. This award is not just a personal milestone but a vote of confidence in community-driven solutions,” he said.
In addition to the National Gold Award, three Silver Award winners were recognised for their community impact. They include Nairobi-based music producer and instrumentalist Mordecai Otieno, who supports emerging artists through production and mentorship.
Also awarded was Kapten Branham Wasike, who represented a youth group in Bungoma County that has established sustainable ventures in poultry farming and mobile money services, with plans underway to set up a community cybercafé.
Mary Chepkoi was also recognised for her work with a deaf basketball programme in Kiambu County, which is creating inclusive opportunities for deaf athletes to train, compete, and gain national exposure.
SportPesa’s Head of Partnerships and Sponsorships, Japheth Akhulia, said the winners embody the true spirit of the Tujiamini 2.0 initiative.
“Tujiamini was designed to support individuals solving real challenges in their communities. From food security and youth employment to inclusion through sport and the creative arts, these winners demonstrate what can be achieved when belief is matched with opportunity,” he said.
Tujiamini 2.0 has toured counties across Kenya, covering the Central, Western, North Rift, North Eastern, Eastern, Coast, Nairobi, Nyanza, and South Rift regions.
The programme has supported over 488 beneficiaries and 15 grassroots football teams through Gold, Silver, and Bronze Community Awards.
As the Tujiamini 2.0 concludes its national rollout, SportPesa says Tujiamini will continue championing community-based solutions, empowering local changemakers with the resources they need to transform ideas into sustainable impact.
By Ian Chepkuto
