Sustainable Agriculture Foundation Africa (SAF-A) is implementing the Central Highlands Ecoregion Foodscape (CHEF) Program that aims to promote the growth and development of market systems, enhance the capacity of livelihoods on efficient and sustainable land and water use as well as advance the adoption of regenerative farming practices for both crops and livestock value chains. Avocado and Irish Potato proves an excellent choice of value chains to start off! 

CHEF intends to use a landscape approach to create key public, private partnerships (PPPs) that will facilitate investments, production technologies, financing options, marketing, resource management, and the overall ecosystem governance within the Mt. Kenya counties. “The project aims to promote the adoption of climate-smart and regenerative agricultural practices to enhance resilience and productivity, facilitate access to profitable markets through innovative solutions, and strengthen the overall smallholder food and market systems through last/first mile delivery models.” Comments Faith Mbuguah, our head of Agri-Entrepreneurship Development Portfolio.  

“This will be achieved, anchored on the Farmers’ Hub model which involves a ‘one-stop’ shop for all smallholder farmers needs ranging from inputs, markets, machinery, advisory and finance.” Adds Faith Mbuguah. 

SAF-A has already established and georeferenced a database of 5,000 (51% women) smallholder farmers in Nakuru and Nyandarua counties supported by 25 Farmers’ Hub offering last-mile service delivery to the farmers whilst promoting the adoption of regenerative practices, soil health management and climate adaptation technologies. 

 “This partnership marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient food future for the Central Highlands and beyond. By investing in regenerative agriculture, empowering farmers, and fostering collaboration, we can build a future where food security and environmental conservation go hand in hand.” Concludes Lucy Kioko, SAF-A’s Executive Director.