Nandi County is turning smallholder farmers into agri-entrepreneurs, boosting food security, and powering local economic growth through a series of bold, flagship projects
From value addition initiatives to climate-smart farming, the administration of Governor Stephen Sang is committed to turning farming into a dignified, profitable, and sustainable venture.
“Our agenda is simple, move from subsistence farming to structured agribusiness. Every flagship project is about adding value, creating markets, and improving livelihoods,” stated Sang.
The Kabiyet Dairy Factory is a game changer in the county’s dairy sector. With a capacity to process over 200,000 liters daily, the state-of-the-art facility has created a structured market for milk from smallholder farmers across Mosop, Aldai, and Chesumei.
“Farmers now earn more, cooperatives are stronger, and youth have jobs in logistics and packaging,” said Nandi County Executive Committee Member CECM for Agriculture Dr Kiplimo Lagat
According to Mercy Chelangat, a dairy farmer from Kabiyet, “We no longer have to sell our milk to brokers at throwaway prices. The factory pays promptly, and we are now expanding our herds and investing in quality feeds because we know there is a reliable market.”
Located in Mosoriot, the Avocado Aggregation and Processing Hub targets Hass avocado production for export. The county has distributed over 15,000 of seedlings and trained farmers on global compliance.
“Avocados mature in 3 years, and we are almost there. This is our future,” says Kipkorir Rotich, a beneficiary farmer from Emgwen.
A major boost to poultry farmers is underway through the construction of a Chicken Slaughter and Processing Plant in Kapsabet town. The facility is expected to process over 3,000 birds’ daily, adding value and expanding market access.
“This flagship will unlock the poultry value chain and provide hundreds of jobs, especially for youth and women groups,” said Dr. Lagat.
The plant will serve farmers across Nandi and neighbouring counties, linking them with hotels, institutions, and regional export markets.
Nandi is reviving its coffee sector through a modern Coffee Processing Factory in Tinderet Sub County. The plant will roast, grind, and package premium beans from Kabunyeria, Kapchorua, and Aldai sub counties
“We’re restoring the pride of coffee farming. Farmers will earn more through value addition,” said Governor Sang.
The county is also working with cooperatives and branding experts to position “Nandi Coffee” as a top-tier Kenyan brand.
The Lessos Hatchery produces over 300,000 fingerlings annually. Increasing uptake of aquaculture has been noted in areas like Ndalat and Tinderet, supporting school feeding programs and trade.
“Before, we never thought fish could thrive here. Now, our ponds are a source of daily income,” says Pauline Jepchirchir from Tinderet.
Farmers across Nandi now access subsidized tractor services, mobile soil testing labs, and solar-powered irrigation systems. These services boost yields and reduce climate risk.
“Agriculture must be data-driven. That’s why we’re investing in testing, mapping, and targeted inputs,” said Dr Lagat.
The County Government, in collaboration with national and global partners, is planning,
Digital farmer registration system, e-Voucher subsidies, Crop and livestock insurance, Farmer cooperatives digital marketplace and Expansion of regenerative agriculture pilot programs
“We are designing Nandi for the future. Agriculture is not just about food, it’s about jobs, dignity, and prosperity,” said the second term Governor.
Source - https://www.kenyanews.go.ke
