The momentum behind coffee farming as a high-value crop continues to build, with the County Government of Uasin Gishu distributing 66,000 coffee seedlings, 2,000 macadamia seedlings, and 1,000 avocado seedlings in the Besiobor area of Tapsagoi Ward, Turbo Sub-County. This initiative is part of the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program, which aims to promote climate resilience and economic empowerment through sustainable agriculture.

As climate change persists, FLLoCA is championing biodiversity by encouraging the cultivation of high-value crops like coffee, macadamia, and avocado. These efforts are not only mitigating the effects of climate change but also transforming the livelihoods of local farmers.

The distribution event was graced by H.E. Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim, accompanied by H.E. Hon. Benjamin Cheboi, Deputy Governor Hon. Evans Kapkea, Tapsagoi Ward MCA Hon. Nicholas Bitok, CECM for Water, Environment, and Natural Resources Mr. Anthony Sitienei, Chief Officer for Environment, Climate Change, Natural Resources, and Energy Mr. Mark Some, and Chief Officer for Agriculture and Agribusiness Mr. Elphas Kesio, Chief Officer for Agriculture and Agribusiness Baringo County.

Directors,Kipchumba Barno (Environment) and Abigael Kibet (FLLoCA), Sub-county Administrator Kiptoo Rotich, and Ward Administrator Vincent Sambai were also present alongside other county officers.

Governor Bii hailed the initiative, stating, “The transformation of agriculture through high-value crops is the future. Coffee is among the most profitable crops, and as Uasin Gishu leaders, we are committed to empowering our people. Under the Nguzo Kumi Blueprint, biodiversity stands out as a key pillar. We are urging our youth to nurture these seedlings, and I will fully support their ventures.”

Baringo Governor Hon. Benjamin Cheboi praised Uasin Gishu’s bold step in agricultural diversification, saying, “When I think of coffee, I don’t think twice. Let’s embrace diversification and plant more cash crops. With fertile land like this, Uasin Gishu has the potential to create a bright future for all.”

One of the program’s beneficiaries, Mzee Joel, expressed his excitement, stating, “I thank the Governor and the County Government for this support. We’ve formed a cooperative and embraced coffee farming wholeheartedly. We now seek assistance in establishing a processing plant as we prepare to become future millionaires and export our produce.”

County officials echoed the Governor’s sentiments, emphasizing that FLLoCA addresses climate change and enables farmers to achieve economic transformation through high-value agriculture.

The Climate Change Unit (CCU), led by Amai Meshack in Tapsagoi, has played a vital role in registering farmers and guiding them through the steps necessary for the successful cultivation of coffee, avocado, and macadamia.

The enthusiasm around coffee farming continues to surge, offering farmers a sustainable path to improved incomes. Beyond crop distribution, FLLoCA continues to roll out initiatives across Uasin Gishu County aimed at mitigating climate change and transforming the lives of local communities.