Njabini, Kenya is a rural farming community located in South Kinangop, Nyandarua, Central Kenya. The majority of Njabini's population is comprised of subsistence farmers- many of whom do not earn enough money to feed their families and put their children through school. The primary challenge that this community faces is the lack of access to outside resources that cultivate small businesses and guide farmers in developing innovative farming techniques to increase crop yield, and therefore boost household incomes and the local economy. This Agribusiness Development initiative is comprised of two activities that will provide access to agribusiness consultants, hands-on training, and start-up capital for families identified as in critical need.
This initiative will be facilitated by a local partnership between the Rotary Club of Nairobi East, Flying Kites- an established non-profit in Njabini, and a private agribusiness consulting firm. This year-long program will host monthly workshops for the duration of the year, serving up to 400 local farmers, and opportunities for individual consultation from the consulting firm. Workshops will feature the introduction of new farming technologies, information about crop cycles and crop diversity, access to business mentors, and an opportunity to collaborate with other local farmers. The goal is to increase household incomes and provide greater opportunity for farmers in rural areas. Engaging the local community and encouraging collaboration will in turn boost the local economy and encourage more business ventures within the community of Njabini, and surrounding communities.
Project funds (a total of $35,000) would be allotted to three major components of this project. $20,000 will be used for agricultural training sessions, including the cost of hiring an Agribusiness Firm to lead workshops and travel to Njabini monthly.
The remaining $15,000 will go towards equipment and supplies needed to complete workshops, as well as providing seed and other materials to farmers as start-up to increase their farm output.
Club members of the Rotary Club of Nairobi East along with members from the Rotary Club of Escondido Sunrise would coordinate with administrative staff at Flying Kites to generate quarterly reports including measurements of business progress and impact reports from local families involved in both aspects of the project. Additionally, members of Nairobi East will be in attendance at the monthly workshops and ensuring that the program is meeting the project goals while facilitating local economic development. Members of Escondido Sunrise have an established relationship with the community of Njabini, and will be assessing reports, as well as collaborating with Nairobi East to ensure the success of the project.
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