Migori partners with KENAF to boost farming and farmer health

Migori County Partners with KENAF to Boost Agricultural Production
Migori County farmers are set to benefit from a new program aimed at improving agricultural productivity and supporting farmers’ health needs through a partnership between the Migori County Government and the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAF).
The initiative, announced in May 2025, seeks to increase food production, mitigate climate-related losses, and provide affordable healthcare services to farmers, many of whom face poor harvests, unpredictable weather, and limited access to extension services.
Billy Nyagaya, Migori County Director of Agriculture, outlined that the program focuses on three main areas: promoting crop insurance, providing farmer education through extension services, and introducing affordable health insurance. These measures aim to improve farming practices, reduce losses, and safeguard farmers’ well-being.
The farmer education component will involve workshops and field demonstrations across the county, training participants in pest control, soil conservation, and crop rotation. Nyagaya emphasized the importance of equipping farmers with modern agricultural knowledge to increase productivity.
Crop insurance will also be promoted, particularly in areas prone to climate-related crop failures. Peter Chacha, Lake Region Chairman of KENAF, highlighted that the insurance plans will provide a safety net, allowing farmers to recover from floods, pests, or diseases without losing their livelihoods.
The partnership further introduces a health insurance scheme in collaboration with Britam Insurance, providing farmers access to medical services for an annual fee of Sh2,999. KENAF Coordinator Chacha Elvin explained that the plan responds to farmers’ concerns over medical expenses, ensuring they can receive care without selling produce or incurring debt.
Soil testing initiatives will also be conducted to guide farmers on suitable crops and fertilizers. Local leaders anticipate that the integrated approach of combining agricultural support with healthcare will bring lasting improvements to the county’s farming sector.
Agriculture has been neglected in Migori for a long time, but this collaboration is a real effort to support the people who put food on our tables, Nyagaya said.
Implementation teams will soon begin village visits to register farmers, conduct training, and help them enroll in health and crop insurance programs. Information centers will provide ongoing support and updates to ensure long-term benefits for farming families.