Siaya County launches agri-nutrition training to empower 3,000 vulnerable farmers

A new agri-nutrition training program has launched in Siaya County to support over 3,000 vulnerable farmers. The initiative, led by the Kenya Livestock Commercialisation Project (KeLCoP), aims to boost livestock productivity while tackling malnutrition in at-risk communities. Four wards have been selected for the pilot, marking a shift toward nutrition-focused farming practices.

The program will train farmers in kitchen gardening, dietary diversification, and sustainable food production. Key topics include homestead food growing, meal planning, safe food preparation, hygiene, and life-cycle nutrition. Priority groups are children under five, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and other nutritionally vulnerable populations.

To ensure local coordination, Trainers of Trainers (TOTs) have been equipped to lead sessions. These trainers will work alongside livestock officers, agriculture extension staff, and community health workers for a united approach. County Chief Officer for Agriculture Elizabeth Adongo stressed the need to pair food production with proper nutrition education.

The initiative builds on similar efforts in other regions. By 2026, four counties—Kiambu, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, and Kisii—had adopted comparable programs. Successes include a 25% rise in dietary diversity in Kiambu (2024 FAO pilot) and improved micronutrient intake in Nakuru through fortified crops. However, challenges remain, such as high dropout rates (30% in Uasin Gishu), drought-related supply disruptions, and funding gaps limiting expansion.

The Siaya County program seeks to strengthen food security and reduce malnutrition through practical training. With TOTs and local partners involved, the project targets long-term resilience for vulnerable farming households. Its outcomes will be closely watched as part of Kenya's broader push for nutrition-sensitive agriculture.