Thogoto, Kikuyu – The Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF) successfully concluded a comprehensive business and service development training at the KENAFF headquarters, Farmers Conference Centre in Thogoto, Kikuyu. The three-day training, which took place from Tuesday, July 11, 2023, to Thursday, July 13, 2023, aimed to enhance the capabilities of KENAFF members.
The training centered around four main objectives. Firstly, it focused on reviewing the analysis of costs, revenues, and member development on a county basis. By assessing these key factors, KENAFF aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the financial landscape and identify areas for improvement. Secondly, the training aimed to report on the progress of services and activities carried out by KENAFF on a county level, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Another crucial objective of the training was knowledge sharing regarding the specific services offered by KENAFF County Associations. By exchanging experiences and insights, participants were equipped with valuable information to enhance their operations. Lastly, the training addressed the needs of KENAFF County and Commodity Associations in implementing business development services, promoting effective planning and execution.
This training builds upon the discussions held during the lead workshop with KENAFF board members and county coordinators in February 2023. During that meeting, the federation’s five-year plan (2022-2026) was reviewed, emphasizing the importance of developing sustainable business and income sources.
One of the highlights of the training was the identification of the annual financial gap per county. By recognizing these gaps, participants gained a clear understanding of the resources required to achieve financial sustainability. The training also focused on key performance indicators for counties, encouraging strategies to attract more members and develop paid services.
Participants were equipped with knowledge on commitment levels required from farmers at the county level to reach the break-even point by 2026. They also explored possible payment structures for member farmers and developed comprehensive project plans, including implementation timelines, personnel requirements, and milestones for control and success.
On Thursday, July 13, 2023, the training concluded with a review of the county-specific requirements for implementing the services. Additionally, a communication plan, including schedules for sharing information, was established. Importantly, KENAFF emphasized the importance of fostering regular exchange of experiences and cross-member learning among the counties to optimize service delivery.
By investing in the business and service development training, KENAFF has taken a significant step towards empowering farmers and bolstering the agricultural sector. The acquired knowledge and strategies gained from this training will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of farmers across Kenya, ensuring a sustainable future for the agriculture sector.