Women in Nandi County are redefining the agricultural landscape by transforming small-scale farming into thriving agribusiness ventures.
Through organized cooperatives, training initiatives, and innovative practices, they are not only sustaining their families but also driving economic growth and empowerment across the region.
Their success has been made possible through strong partnerships with the County Government of Nandi, particularly the Department of Agriculture, which continues to champion sustainable farming and promote women-led value chains such as coffee, avocado, dairy, and poultry.
Among these, poultry farming has emerged as the most vibrant enterprise, attracting hundreds of women farmers.
During a recent field day organized by the Ollessos Poultry Women Group at Marindich Farm in Nandi Hills Sub-County, women showcased the gains made in poultry production and value addition. The event brought together farmers from across the county, demonstrating how collective effort and knowledge sharing can transform rural livelihoods.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Paul Sanga, the Chief Officer for Agriculture and Cooperative Development, commended the women for their resilience and innovation in agribusiness.
“Women have proven to be the backbone of our agricultural success. Their commitment to modern farming and cooperative models is changing how we view agriculture, not just as a means of survival but as a profitable and sustainable business,” said Dr. Sanga.
The field day also attracted youth who are increasingly embracing agribusiness as a source of income.
Sharon Cherobon, a young farmer specializing in African Indigenous Vegetables, said such forums offer valuable opportunities to learn and grow.
“These field days give us a chance to learn from others, explore new techniques, and promote safe, high-quality products for our consumers,” said Cherobon.
She added that women’s participation in Agribusiness has been instrumental in building stronger communities, creating jobs, and inspiring more young people to venture into farming.
The Ollessos Poultry Cooperative Society, composed mainly of women, was recently recognized as the best-performing cooperative in Nandi County for its outstanding contribution to poultry farming.
Through the cooperative, women have accessed soft loans and flexible repayment plans, enabling them to expand their ventures and increase production.
According to members, joining a cooperative has made farming more exciting and rewarding. It has opened doors to financial support, access to markets, and technical training on issues such as pest management, disease control, and value addition.
The County Government has further strengthened women’s agribusiness ventures by linking them with off takers and creating market pathways through initiatives such as the Kochengei Poultry Processing Plant in Kapsabet, the Nandi Milk Processing Plant in Kabiyet, the Avocado Pack House in Lolduga, and the Chebonet Coffee Factory in Tindiret.
Ollessos Ward Member of County Assembly Isaiah Maina applauded the women for their efforts in transforming the local economy through agriculture and pledged continued support for empowerment initiatives.
“When we empower women, we empower families. Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy, and these women are proving that farming can indeed be a tool for financial independence,” he said.
The shift towards the commercialization of agriculture in Nandi County has not only boosted productivity but also elevated women from subsistence farmers to agripreneurs.
Their growing involvement across value chains continues to inspire others, proving that with the right support, women can lead the way in achieving food security and rural transformation.
By Geoffrey Satia and Joseline Chepkorir
