By WMW
Cabinet Secretaries Mutahi Kagwe and Wycliffe Oparanya are expected in Nyeri County today for the signing of a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at transforming agriculture and livestock development in the region.
The agreement will be signed between the County Government of Nyeri and the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), with Governor Mutahi Kahiga hosting the event.
Background to the partnership
The collaboration stems from discussions held on October 13, last year, when the county hosted a KALRO delegation led by its board chairman Dr Thuo Mathenge. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in agricultural and livestock activities to improve livelihoods for residents.
As part of the agreement, Nyeri County has committed to allocating 20 acres of land at the Agriculture Machinery Station (AMS) in Narumoru for the establishment of a KALRO research centre. The land will be provided for an initial period of 20 years at a nominal cost.
Key objectives
The MoU seeks to formalize collaboration between the two institutions and establish a framework for advancing agricultural research, innovation, and sustainability.
The proposed KALRO centre will serve as a hub for disseminating research-based technologies, innovations, and management practices to farmers in Nyeri and neighbouring counties.
The partnership will also focus on building capacity among farmers and agricultural officers through training, demonstrations, and extension services. Additionally, it aims to enhance productivity, promote sustainable farming practices, and improve access to both local and international markets.
Areas of collaboration
Under the agreement, both parties will work together in several key areas, including research and development, resource mobilization, technology transfer, and policy advocacy. Joint research programmes will be developed to address local agricultural challenges, while validation and testing of agricultural technologies will ensure their effectiveness and adaptability.
The collaboration will also support farmers in accessing broader markets and facilitate trade development. Training programmes will be rolled out to equip farmers with skills in modern farming practices, post-harvest management, and market systems.
Roles and responsibilities
KALRO will be responsible for establishing and managing the research centre, conducting applied research, and implementing training and capacity-building programmes.
It will also mobilize resources and partnerships to sustain the initiative, as well as promote environmental conservation through innovative projects.
On its part, the Nyeri County Government will provide the land, facilitate site development, and offer logistical and administrative support. The county will also help identify priority areas for research and coordinate with relevant departments to ensure effective implementation of the programme.
Long-term Impact
The MoU will be valid for an initial 20-year period, with provisions for developing specific agreements for individual projects under the partnership.
Leaders say the initiative is expected to significantly boost agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and create economic opportunities for farmers in Nyeri. By integrating research, innovation, and market access, the partnership aims to position the county as a leader in modern, sustainable agriculture.
The signing ceremony marks a major step in aligning county-level development with national agricultural transformation goals, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the collaboration will deliver long-term benefits to farmers and the broader economy.
After the signing ceremony, the team will head to Gachatha coffee factory where they will preside over giving out of coffee seedlings to farmers.
John Kamau