BARINGO, Kenya – The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) joined farmers, government officials, and development partners during the Baringo County Development Tour and Farmers’ Engagement Programme on 12th June 2026 aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture, strengthening value chains, and improving farmer incomes.
The engagement brought together stakeholders from across the agricultural sector to discuss strategies for increasing productivity, expanding market opportunities, and enhancing resilience among farming communities in the county.
The event was graced by Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Paul Kiprono Ronoh, CBS, alongside Mogotio Member of Parliament Reuben Kiborek, county government officials, development partners, and hundreds of farmers.
Government Pushes Agricultural Transformation in Baringo
The development tour highlighted several government initiatives designed to support agricultural growth and improve livelihoods in Baringo County.
Among the key activities was the inspection of a water pan at the Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) Koibatek, a project expected to improve water availability for agricultural production in the region.
Officials also oversaw the distribution of tea and avocado seedlings to farmers at Torongo Centre, a move aimed at expanding high-value crop production and diversifying household incomes.
The delegation further visited farms within the Mwachon Tea Zone to assess progress in tea farming and engage growers on best agricultural practices that can boost productivity and quality.
Sirwa Aggregation Centre Launched to Strengthen Market Access
A major highlight of the programme was the official launch of the Sirwa Aggregation Centre, which is expected to enhance market access for farmers by improving produce collection, aggregation, and linkages to buyers.
Aggregation centres play a critical role in reducing post-harvest losses, improving product quality, and enabling farmers to access better prices through collective marketing.
The event also saw the distribution of coffee seedlings to farmers as part of efforts to revitalize coffee production and expand income-generating opportunities in the county.
AFA Promotes Sustainable Agriculture and Value Chain Development
During the engagement, AFA emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and value chain development in driving economic growth and food security.
The Authority continues to work with farmers, county governments, and industry stakeholders to strengthen key agricultural value chains, improve quality standards, and support access to domestic and export markets.
The farmers’ engagement programme reflects the Government’s broader commitment to transforming agriculture into a profitable and sustainable enterprise while creating jobs and improving rural livelihoods.
With increased investments in water infrastructure, aggregation facilities, quality seedlings, and farmer support services, Baringo County is positioning itself as an emerging hub for tea, coffee, avocado, and other high-value agricultural enterprises.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that continued collaboration between national and county governments, development partners, and farmers will accelerate agricultural transformation and contribute to long-term food security and economic development in the region.