Over 2000 farmers from cooperatives in West Pokot attended a major agricultural exhibition in Chepareria Pkomo Sub-county aimed at improving productivity through education and practical demonstrations.
The event brought together farmers agro-dealers and cooperative leaders in a collaborative effort to address challenges facing crop and livestock production in the region.
It was organized by farmers cooperatives in partnership with agro-chemical companies and supported by local agricultural stakeholders.
Former West Pokot Governor Prof. John Lonyangapuo praised the initiative saying the county has strong potential in milk beef honey and crop production.
He urged more frequent exhibitions and called for stronger investment in farmer education to transform producers into agripreneurs capable of competing in modern markets.
According to him cooperatives should also prioritize value addition to ensure farmers earn better prices from their produce.
Farmers who attended the exhibition said they gained practical knowledge in coffee farming poultry rearing and pest management techniques that affect yields.
Mary Limatiang from Pokot Farmers Cooperative Society said she learned improved coffee varieties and better methods of controlling pests that reduce production.
David Chemale treasurer of Karas Farmers Cooperative Society said members benefited from poultry training that will enhance chicken production and skills.
Young farmer Vincent Kibet said agriculture has become a source of employment for him and that the exhibition helped sharpen his production skills.
Weeks of planning by local cooperatives ensured strong turnout with farmers arriving from different parts of West Pokot to access training on modern farming methods and market access opportunities.
County agriculture officers said the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen food security through knowledge sharing platforms and farmer training programs.
Officials emphasized that improving access to affordable farm inputs mechanization services and extension support remains key to boosting productivity in the semi-arid county.
The exhibition also provided a platform for agro-dealers to showcase products and technologies that can help farmers reduce production costs and increase yields.
Organizers said they plan to hold more such forums across the county to ensure continuous farmer education and stronger agricultural output in West Pokot.
Participants noted that the training sessions helped bridge knowledge gaps that have long affected smallholder farmers particularly in pest control soil management and post-harvest handling.
Agro-chemical companies involved in the event demonstrated safe and efficient use of farm inputs stressing the importance of responsible application to protect soil health.
Young farmers who formed a notable portion of attendees expressed optimism that modern farming techniques introduced at the exhibition will improve their income prospects.
Cooperative leaders reiterated the need for continued partnerships between government agencies private sector actors and farmers to sustain agricultural transformation in the region.
The event underscored the critical role of agriculture in West Pokot economy where most households rely on farming and livestock for their livelihoods.
Stakeholders further encouraged farmers to adopt climate-smart agriculture practices as weather variability continues to affect production patterns across the county.
Organizers thanked participants for their active engagement and reaffirmed commitment to scaling up similar initiatives in other sub-counties.
Experts say such exhibitions are increasingly vital in bridging gaps between research agribusiness innovation and rural farming communities ensuring farmers are better equipped to respond to market demands and improve food security across Kenya arid and semi-arid regions.
Officials emphasized continued investment in training as a pathway to sustainable agricultural growth in West Pokot County Kenya.
Keywords: West Pokot farming, Agricultural training Kenya, Farmers exhibition Chepareria, Cooperative agriculture Kenya, Agribusiness development, Food security Kenya, Crop and livestock production, Rural farmer empowerment
