Over 2,900 tea farmers in Embu County have completed a six-month training programme on climate adaptation farming and crop diversification to boost production and incomes.
The initiative, implemented through a partnership between the Mount Kenya Sustainable Landscape and Livelihoods (MSULLI) Programme, Rainforest Alliance, and the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) Foundation, aims to equip farmers with practical skills to maximise yields, ensure food security, and adapt to shrinking land sizes and changing climatic conditions.
The training covered climate-smart techniques such as soil and water management, riparian zone protection, agribusiness, crop diversification, home economics, and value addition.
Rainforest Alliance official Susan Kinyua said the programme was tailored to help farmers cope with shifting weather patterns while building resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding climate change shocks, economic downturns, and pest infestations.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony at Kathangariri Tea Factory, Kinyua expressed confidence that the training would deliver lasting benefits.
“The organization is committed to continuing to support farmers through training, resources and market linkages,” she said.
KTDA Foundation representative Allan Kinuthia said the project also aims to expand market access for smallholder farmers. Training is currently underway in eight KTDA factories, five in Kirinyaga and three in Embu, with a target to train 14,000 farmers and indirectly reach 25,000.
Kathangariri Tea Factory chairperson Moses Kamau welcomed the partnership, noting its potential to boost production, improve wages, and uplift farmers’ livelihoods.
Beneficiaries of the programme praised the initiative. Jane Njeru from Mbuvori said the training had equipped her with new skills, including diversified farming, yoghurt production, and soap making, which she believes will help increase her income and support her family.
