“SAF-A became my destiny shaper.”

SAF-A supports the entrepreneurial drive of smallholder farmers, with a focus on young people. With access to training and support, farmers can find new ways to improve their livelihoods. Through the Agri-Entrepreneurship Portfolio, SAF-Africa has strengthened farmer-led enterprises, built inclusive value chains, and expanded opportunities for women and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Ruth Kabiru is a young agri-entrepreneur and founder of Crop Care Hub in Nakuru. She works with over 250 smallholder farmers, helping them access farm inputs and connect to markets. Ruth shared her experience at the SAF-A rebranding and launch event: https://www.youtube.com/live/HNxTRBYrdto?si=P3lxC6ZkA7xFZ1K6

“After completing college in 2021, I wanted to venture in agriculture but was unsure where to start. At a farmers’ exhibition in Njoro, I met a SAF-A project officer who introduced me to the Farmers’ Hub Model. I then followed up with many questions and calls, seeking guidance. I became a beneficiary of the Potato for Livelihood project, which supports forest communities with alternative income sources. I was also connected to government agencies for training in potato production. I shared what I learned with other farmers registered at Crop Care Farmers’ Hub.”

Ruth began with 3,000 apical cuttings of potato and now manages five acres with different seed classes of potato. Access to certified seeds is improving in her area. Although she studied finance, Ruth now helps farmers get inputs, advice, and mechanisation services. Her community now looks to her for agricultural knowledge and support.

“African youths are becoming the new implementors of agricultural innovations. The opportunities are vast and remunerative. Ruth Kabiru is one such young lady transforming her life economically through SAF-A innovations and support along agri- entrepreneurship.” Writes Stephen Okeyo, SAF-A’s Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, Learning and Communications Manager.