The TAGDev 2.0 Program, through the Agrifood Systems and Entrepreneurship Consortium (ASEC) Potato Value Chain, participated in the Nakuru County Farmers Field Day held in Mutirithia, Molo on 5th August 2026. Organized in partnership with the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK), the event brought together over 500 farmers, youths, extension officers, researchers, students, and other agricultural stakeholders to promote sustainable agriculture, climate-smart farming practices, and innovative technologies that improve agricultural productivity and livelihoods.
The event served as an important platform for farmers and young agripreneurs to learn about emerging agricultural innovations, exchange knowledge with experts, and explore practical solutions that enhance food security, increase farm productivity, and strengthen resilience to climate change.
TAGDev 2.0, together with its partners, showcased a range of Technologies, Innovations and Management Practices (TIMPs) that are transforming potato production and promoting sustainable agriculture. The demonstrations enabled farmers to gain first-hand experience with technologies that address production challenges while improving efficiency and profitability. Among the key innovations showcased was Apical Rooted Cuttings (ARCs) technology for the production of quality seed potatoes. Farmers learned how the use of clean, disease-free planting materials contributes to higher yields, improved crop quality, and reduced seed-borne diseases. The demonstrations highlighted the importance of quality seed as the foundation of productive and profitable potato farming.
Participants also explored other climate-smart technologies designed to improve agricultural productivity and resource efficiency. These included drone technology for precision agriculture, solar-powered irrigation systems that promote efficient water use, climate-smart soil conditioners for improved soil health and fertility, and Diffused Light Stores (DLS) for better seed potato storage and post-harvest management. The practical demonstrations illustrated how innovation can help farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions while increasing productivity and reducing post-harvest losses.The field day also featured practical capacity-building sessions on the safe and responsible use of agrochemicals, enabling farmers to adopt practices that protect human health, safeguard the environment, and improve crop performance. In addition, the event facilitated direct market linkages by connecting farmers with agricultural stakeholders and service providers. Youth-led student enterprises also participated by showcasing innovative last-mile delivery solutions that improve farmers' access to agricultural technologies, quality inputs, and advisory services.
Speaking during the event, Professor Anthony Kibe, the Lead Potato Value Chain, challenged farmers to intentionally support and involve young people in agriculture, noting that they are essential to the future of the sector.
"I encourage all farmers to engage and support their young children in farming. They are the future of agriculture and the custodians of our food security. By empowering our youth with knowledge, skills, and opportunities today, we are securing a productive, resilient, and food-secure tomorrow," said Professor Kibe.
He emphasized that young people possess the creativity, innovation, and energy needed to transform agriculture into a modern, profitable, and climate-resilient sector. He encouraged parents, communities, and agricultural stakeholders to create opportunities that enable youth to actively participate in farming and agribusiness, ensuring the long-term sustainability of food systems.
The Nakuru County Farmers Field Day demonstrated the importance of collaboration between development partners, researchers, extension officers, farmers, and educational institutions in accelerating agricultural transformation. Through knowledge exchange, technology demonstrations, and practical learning, the event strengthened farmers' capacity to adopt sustainable and market-oriented farming practices while creating opportunities for youth to participate meaningfully in agricultural development.
TAGDev 2.0 remains committed to empowering farmers and young agripreneurs with innovative technologies, entrepreneurial skills, and market-driven solutions that contribute to increased agricultural productivity, improved livelihoods, enhanced food security, and resilient farming communities.The participation of TAGDev 2.0 in the Nakuru County Farmers Field Day reaffirmed the programme's commitment to promoting climate-smart agriculture, strengthening potato value chains, and empowering both farmers and youth through innovation and entrepreneurship. By creating platforms for learning, collaboration, and technology transfer, the programme continues to contribute to sustainable agricultural development and resilient food systems.
As TAGDev 2.0 continues working alongside its partners, it remains dedicated to equipping farmers and young people with the knowledge, technologies, and opportunities needed to drive agricultural transformation and build a productive, sustainable, and food-secure future for Kenya.
By Purity Kanyiva, Communication and Media Intern.