From Traditional Farmer to Agripreneur

Kelvin Murage, 29, grew up in a farming family in Kenya’s Kirinyaga, which naturally led him to agriculture. For the past eight years, he has been cultivating cabbage and coffee, choosing these crops due to market demand and favorable soil conditions.   

A friend introduced him to the Engaging Kenyan Youth in Agriculture and Nutrition (EKYAN), a pilot programme from UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited, which helped him transition to more modern farming practices. The EKYAN programme is supported by the Government of the Netherlands and FMC Corporation, and implemented in the county with Kuza One.

Leveraging technology

Through EKYAN, Murage was introduced to modern agricultural practices, especially value chain development – knowledge that changed the direction of his work.

“EKYAN provided us with tablets and projectors. I learned about various value chains, especially coffee, and this helped me translate modern farming into practical lessons for others.”

Armed with new tools and digital learning materials, he began training fellow farmers, sharing insights on sustainable practices, productivity improvement, and the business side of agriculture. The programme also strengthened his financial management skills, enabling him to approach farming as a fully-fledged agribusiness.

Growing income

Today, Murage’s income has increased by 67%, but the impact extends far beyond his own work. He now collaborates with around 120 farmers, linking them with suppliers of quality seeds and essential inputs.

His influence has also reached the classroom. Sharing his knowledge with local schoolchildren, Murage noticed that many students lacked knowledge about nutrition. After the training, everything changed.

“Before the training, the schoolchildren were drawn mostly to junk food. Now they know about arrowroot and sweet potatoes. They say it’s nutritious for them and they’re embracing it.”

Some students have even developed an interest in agriculture, inspired by Kelvin’s journey and the practical lessons he brings to school.

Championing regenerative agriculture

One of the most important lessons Kelvin gained from EKYAN was the importance of soil health and regenerative practices.

“When soil is depleted and produce is low, I became curious to understand how we can change this tragedy. I have now seen the positive impact of regenerative agriculture.”

This new knowledge has not only improved yields but has positioned him as a resource person for farmers seeking long‑term, sustainable farming methods.

Building networks and a brighter future

For Kelvin, one of the most rewarding aspects of his EKYAN experience has been the relationships he has built along the way.

“My favorite part is that I've been able to network with my fellow agripreneurs and connect with farmers who have now become my own customers purchasing seeds and seedlings.”

As he looks ahead, his ambitions continue to grow. Kelvin plans to expand his agribusiness, create more jobs, and deepen his impact in his community.

“My future is bright. I can surely say that I am not a traditional farmer, but a real agribusiness farmer.”

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