MANGOES FROM ABOVE IV (MFA IV)

Before the project, farmers in Kirinyaga County faced low productivity and income due to fragmented value chains and limited access to markets. Most smallholder farmers relied on traditional farming methods with minimal adoption of sustainable or organic practices, leading to inconsistent yields and reduced product quality.

There was little or no value addition, meaning farmers sold raw produce at low prices, missing out on higher returns. Farmer organizations were weak or nonexistent, limiting collective bargaining power, access to training, and economies of scale.

Access to financial services was also a major constraint, with many farmers excluded from formal banking systems, restricting their ability to invest in production or agribusiness. Additionally, there was limited technical knowledge and extension support, and weak linkages between farmers and key stakeholders, hindering innovation and growth in the agricultural sector.

• Farmer mobilization and cooperative formation
• Training on organic and ecological farming
• Agribusiness and entrepreneurship development
• Demonstration plots and field schools
• Exposure visits and farmer exchange learning
• Value addition and processing support
• Stakeholder engagement and networking
• Livelihood diversification initiatives
• Resource mobilization and partnerships
• Post-harvest handling and food safety training