Despite its high potential for dairy farming, Molo, like many highland areas in Kenya, has been hindered by a lack of technical knowledge among farmers. This has often resulted in low milk production, limiting the income potential for many households. To address this challenge, the 3E organization has been working to equip farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage their dairy cows.
For generations, coffee farmers in Kabazi have relied on traditional knowledge to cultivate their crops. While these practices have sustained livelihoods, they often fall short in maximizing profits and ensuring financial stability. To address this, 3E Organization has prioritized entrepreneurial development, focusing on financial literacy to empower farmers.
In the highland counties of Kenya, dairy farming has long been a cornerstone of the local economy. Many farmers practice small-scale operations, each tending to a few cows that produce an average of 5 litres of milk per milking session. While traditional milk products have been passed down through generations, their short shelf life and nutrient loss often limit their economic potential.
Entrepreneurship has emerged as a powerful force for economic development, creating jobs and fostering innovation. By providing entrepreneurs with the necessary support, we can unleash the full potential of this sector and create even more opportunities for growth.
Financial literacy is essential for dairy farmers to make profit. Without it, tracking earnings, identifying investment opportunities, and transforming farming from a hobby to a high-income activity becomes challenging. At 3E, where we prioritize entrepreneurial development for our farmers, we recognized this very challenge.
Sarah Ruto, a 48-year-old resident of Kaptich village in Marigat subcounty, Kenya, was familiar with the challenges of farming in an arid and semi-arid area (ASAL). For years, she relied on maize farming primarily for commercial purposes, generating income only once a year, which mainly went towards her children’s school fees.
In Marigat, a Kenyan area known for its arid and semi-arid climate, malnutrition a is prevalent. Unpredictable rainfall patterns make achieving food security a constant struggle. The dry seasons render large parts of the year unproductive.
Farmers have traditionally relied on their own methods to store grain after harvest, but these methods often have limitations and are not very efficient. While there’s been a focus on increasing crop yields, less attention has been paid to post-harvest losses, which can be as high as 30%.
For generations, Kabazi farmers have nurtured coffee trees, their livelihoods have been sustained by coffee for over 50 years. However, time has brought challenges. Traditional SL 28 and Batian varieties have yielded diminishing returns, averaging at 3kg per tree.
In Molo subcounty, Kenya, where agriculture is the main source of income for many households, farmers face challenges from chemical-intensive practices that degrade soil health and traditional cow feeding methods that limit milk production and income.
Coffee farming has long been a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, especially in the country’s highlands. Introduced by white settlers, coffee cultivation took root, and after their departure, local Kenyans took over the farms.
The Mau Juhudi Self Help Group, with support from 3E, established a milk bar to provide quality milk while ensuring safety standards. This initiative has led to increased sales and added value through cheese and yogurt production. Not only does it benefit small-scale farmers, but it also promotes sustainable business practices within the community.