As part of the implementation of the MOU between the University of Eldoret and Hand-in-Hand East Africa, the Outreach Centre conducted a series of farmer training sessions across different sub-counties within Uasin Gishu county between April and June, 2025. These sessions covered a range of horticultural and agricultural practices tailored to the needs of local farmers. The training sessions were facilitated by experts from the University of Eldoret and Ms. Anne Njoki, the staff in charge of trainings at the Outreach Centre.
In Kabamoi, Sugut, on 24th April 2025, Dr. Daniel Chebet led a training for 71 farmers, focusing on the region's market advantages due to its proximity to Eldoret town and the international airport. Farmers were encouraged to diversify their crops using a four-part model—food crops, fodder, commercial fruits, and cash crops—and to explore small enterprises like poultry and beekeeping. Seedbed treatment methods, including chemical use and solarization, were also demonstrated.
Another session in Kapseret on 5th May 2025, attended by 53 farmers and led by Dr. Victoria Ajichi, emphasized vegetable diversification and seed production for indigenous crops like black nightshade and spider plants. Farmers were taught proper seed drying techniques to avoid scorching and ensure viability.
At Kiborokwa on the same day as the Kabamoi training, 64 farmers learned about market intelligence and opportunity costs from Dr. Josiah Chiveu. The session highlighted the importance of selecting crops based on water needs, market demand, and disease resistance, alongside maintaining records to track profitability.
Earlier, on 24th March 2025, Kipkabus hosted a soil-focused training for 36 farmers, led by Godfrey Odour. The session covered soil sampling techniques, such as the zig-zag method for composite samples, and interpreting results to optimize fertilizer use while avoiding over-application.
In St. Paul Kapseret Church, on 7th April 2025, Dr. Ngeno trained 66 farmers on pest and disease management, advocating for indigenous solutions like ash or pepper concoctions before resorting to chemicals. Nursery preparation and the safe use of agrochemicals were also key topics.
Finally, in Tebsweet on 23rd April 2025, Dr. Daniel Chebet reiterated the importance of soil testing and proper land subdivision to 44 farmers. The training stressed market-oriented planting, clean water use, and crop rotation to sustain soil health and yields.
Across all sessions, common themes included soil health, crop diversification, and market strategies. These trainings equipped farmers with practical skills to enhance productivity while addressing regional challenges.
Venue | Date | Attendance | Key Topic | Trainer(s) |
---|---|---|---|---|
St. Paul Kapseret Church | 7th April 2025 | 66 farmers | Pest/disease management, nursery prep | Dr. Ngeno, Anne Njoki |
Kabamoi, Sugut | 24th April 2025 | 71 farmers | Crop diversification, market strategies | Dr. Daniel Chebet, Anne Njoki |
Kiborokwa | 24th April 2025 | 64 farmers | Vegetable selection, record-keeping | Dr. Josiah Chiveu, Anne Njoki |
Kipkabus | 24th March 2025 | 36 farmers | Soil testing & fertilizer use | Godfrey Odour, Anne Njoki |
Tebsweet | 23rd April 2025 | 44 farmers | Soil health, crop timing, market focus | Dr. Daniel Chebet, Anne Njoki |
Kapseret | 5th May 2025 | 53 farmers | Seed production, vegetable diversity | Dr. Victoria Ajichi, Anne Njoki |