We can still take a leaf out of their book in October 2024

This says District Farmer Representative Edeltraud Häusler, impressed by the motto of WoFaAK: “We are the women farmers – we feed the world.” Together with Christiane Ade (Second Deputy State Farmer Representative), Helene Greubel (Deputy District Farmer Representative, Bad Kissingen), and Angelika Eberl (Project Manager at BBV-LIZ), she participated in a delegation visit to Kenya from October 2 to October 10, 2024. 

Here's their report:

  Annlucy Kigocha and Edeltraud Häusler were very happy about the reunion in Embu.

Day 1 – Nairobi

Meeting with GIZ
Upon arriving in Nairobi, the delegation paid an initial visit to Petra Jacobi, the new Program Director for Agriculture and Rural Development at GIZ. This meeting was an opportunity to introduce BBV-LIZ and its activities in Kenya.

Working session with the team of the TV show Shamba Shape Up
To support WoFaAK in public relations and visibility, the delegation plans to create five slots for the Kenyan reality TV show Shamba Shape Up. The upcoming 15th season focuses on climate change adaptation, nutrition, youth, and women – areas that align with WoFaAK's mission. This collaboration offers WoFaAK a platform to highlight its goals and successes, strengthen its presence in existing counties, and encourage demand for women farmers’ associations in other regions. The production team discussed with us the details during the meeting.

Day 2 - Enhanced Technologies for Food Security, Nutrition, and Climate Change Action.

First Women Farmers’ Day by WoFaAK, Embu District

The first Women Farmers’ Day organized by WoFaAK Chapter Embu and the Kenyan Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), took place on 4^th October 2024. We had the honour to attend this outstanding event. About 2,000 participants attended, including 800 WoFaAK members, international delegations from Uganda and Zambia, and numerous local businesses and organizations.

  Hilda Nessy, Chair of WoFaAK Chapter Embu presents a scarf handmade by a member group to Hon. Celiy Mbarire, governor of Embu County.

Highlights of the event:

• Wide reach: The event served as a valuable platform for networking and exchange.

   

      

• Media coverage: Mwendani FM broadcasted live, and Governor Cecily Mbarire, the guest of honor, shared photos on Facebook, showcasing the enthusiasm of participants.

A broad range of exhibitors displayed their products and services, promoting innovation and partnerships for food security, including KALRO, insurance companies, banks, fertilizer and seed companies.

• Building networks and international connections: Delegates from Uganda and Zambia enriched the event and opened opportunities for future collaborations, experience sharing and trade.

   

• Youth empowerment and education: The Go-Getters youth group, comprising young women, advocated for more youth involvement. Students from Jeremiah Nyaga National Polytechnic attended to learn about agricultural economics, with discussions initiated about potential mentoring programs.

    Dr Micheni, Director of KALRO, framed by the BBV-LIZ team Angelika Eberl, Christiane Ade, Helene Greubel and Edeltraud Häusler.

   

Christiane Ade, Second Deputy State Farmer Representative, remarked:
"It’s inspiring to see our project flourish. The Women Farmers’ Day in Embu was an international forum connecting women farmers from Kenya, Zambia, Uganda, and Bavaria. It underscored the growing importance of regional and global partnerships in achieving shared development goals."

The event demonstrated the vital role women play in sustainable agricultural development and fostered crucial bridges for future collaborations.

Day 3 – District Board Meeting in Embu

On the third day, the board members of the central region, alongside Ugandan representatives, reflected on the success of the Women Farmers’ Day. Each district shared activity updates. Angelika Eberl emphasized the need to use the remaining 18 months of the third project phase effectively for training and networking. Winnie Muriithi encouraged members to engage actively in WoFaAK programs.

Day 4 – Journey to Western Kenya

The delegation returned to Nairobi and flew to Kisumu in Western Kenya.

  From bottom left to top right: Dr Marystella Wabwoba, Christiane Ade, Winnie Muriithi, Edeltraud Häusler, 

Phassy Mbone, Helene Greubel, Irene Sikuku and Angelika Eberl.

Day 5 – First Workshop in Vihiga County

The first Leadership and Governance (L&G) workshop was held in Vihiga, a new WoFaAK County. Leaders from 20 self-help groups that recently joined WoFaAK participated. Winnie Muriithi vividly described the organization’s vision, while BBV-LIZ introduced itself as the NGO providing knowledge, experience, and funding to support WoFaAK’s growth.

Day 6 – Regional Meeting in Western Kenya

Board members from Western Kenya convened to discuss the past six months’ progress and challenges. Topics included:

• Upcoming projects: Siaya County plans to open a Safe House for women, while Kakamega is organizing field days for 2025.

• Leadership transitions: Bungoma County elected a new chairperson following internal conflicts.

The meeting concluded with a presentation by Josephine Maniga, social service officer from Kakamega County Government, on the legal framework for associations and its implementation.

Day 7 – Closing Day in Nairobi: Meeting with KENAFF Representatives

The delegation met with young representatives from the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF) to explore collaboration opportunities. A visit to KENAFF's annual general meeting in November is planned.

After an intense week full of meaningful interactions and insights, the delegation returned home.

Helene Greubel, Deputy District Farmer Representative, reflected:
"You could immediately feel the determination and ambition of these women to change their circumstances. Kenya was an extraordinary experience for me."