From Cattle Rustling to Cash Crops: Elgeyo Marakwet's Agricultural Transformation

Kapsowar, Wednesday, July 5, 2023

KNA by Rennish Okong’o

In the picturesque landscapes of Elgeyo Marakwet County, a transformation is taking place. Farmers in this region, previously plagued by cattle rustling and banditry, are now embracing cash crop farming, particularly sorghum.

Spearheaded by the Elgeyo Marakwet County Governor's Pesa Mfukoni initiative, this shift is bringing hope, prosperity, and relative peace to the once-troubled communities.

Through partnerships with companies like Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) providing ready markets for sorghum farmers, this new venture promises a sustainable and profitable future for the agricultural sector in the region.

Raymond Korir, a determined farmer from Kabulwo sub-location in Emsoo ward, Keiyo North Sub County, is a testament to the success of this initiative.

Formerly engaged in green gram and millet farming, Korir decided to fully embrace sorghum farming due to its profitability and the readily available market. The drought-resistant nature of sorghum, combined with the short harvesting period compared to maize, makes it highly beneficial for farmers in this semi-arid region.

Investing nearly Sh 70,000 in his six acres of land, Korir expects to reap a profit exceeding Sh 500,000. By directly selling his produce to KBL, he eliminates the involvement of middlemen, ensuring a fair return on his investment.

Despite the promising future, challenges persist for these determined farmers. The lack of access to necessary agricultural inputs, such as crop protection drugs and pesticides, has resulted in the destructive presence of fall armyworms on their farms.

Despite efforts to spray their fields, these pests continue to multiply, posing a threat to their crops. Additionally, the scarcity of agricultural extension officers, who could provide expert guidance, is a hindrance to the success of this relatively new initiative. Farmers are eagerly awaiting support from the government to address these challenges effectively.

The success stories of farmers like Raymond Korir and Evans Chirchir from Kilos, Arror ward, and Marakwet West Sub County have ignited a wave of enthusiasm among other farmers.

Chirchir, who has invested Sh 20,000 in his sorghum farm, aims to secure a substantial profit. Having experienced the hardships of cattle rustling and subsequent loss of livestock, he recognizes the significance of sorghum farming in transforming not only the economy but also the security landscape. By generating income through farming, farmers become less motivated to engage in cattle rustling, fostering peace and stability in the region.

At the heart of this agricultural revolution lies Kamsiwet Farm, a 100-acre expanse that was abandoned for three years due to insecurity caused by cattle rustling.

Paul Cherop, the farm's chairman, recounts the challenges faced by the community during those troubled times. However, with the return of peace, the farm has been resurrected, serving as a symbol of resilience and progress.

Through the efforts of the community, supported by the county government's administration, Kamsiwet Farm has become a collective endeavor, with 122 farmers allocated distinct plots for cultivation.

With an irrigation system in place, the farmers have the potential to maximize their yields. Although the irrigation system requires repairs, the community is actively seeking funds to rectify the plumbing issues and fully utilize the farm's resources. Additionally, plans are underway to diversify crops, including cowpeas, sugarcane, okra, green grams, and rice, to enhance the farm's productivity and profitability.

Rose Rotich, a passionate farmer at Kamsiwet Farm, highlights the success achieved through the mobilization of women farmers. By encouraging their fellow women to abandon illicit brew production and join the farming movement, they have not only improved their livelihoods but also contributed to the overall success of the initiative.

Rotich's determination is evident, as she shares her experience of relocating to safer areas during times of insecurity. However, with the continuous peace in the region, she plans to return to her original home and continue her farming ventures at Kamsiwet Farm.

The transformation of Elgeyo Marakwet County from a region plagued by cattle rustling and banditry to a thriving hub of cash crop farming is a testament to the resilience and determination of its farmers.

Through the Pesa Mfukoni initiative and partnerships with market players like Kenya Breweries Limited, sorghum farming has emerged as a viable and profitable opportunity.

This shift has not only brought economic prosperity but also fostered peace and stability in the region. With challenges to overcome and dreams of a brighter future, these farmers are tilling their land, sowing their seeds, and reaping the rewards of their labor. As sorghum fields flourish across the landscape, a new chapter unfolds in Elgeyo Marakwet County, where agriculture is the key to a prosperous future.

Courtesy ; K. N. A