The Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) has entered into a partnership with Murang’a county in a move aimed at supporting local farmers engaged in sorghum cultivation. This collaboration is part of KBL’s broader community empowerment initiatives and is expected to provide farmers with a range of benefits to enhance their agricultural practices.
The partnership will encompass various facets of support, including the provision of affordable credit facilities, field extension services, and connections to seed companies, fertilizer providers, and research institutes. These measures are designed to bolster the competitiveness of the local farmers, allowing them to maximize their agricultural potential.
Mark Ocitti, the Managing Director of KBL, lauded the partnership’s significance, emphasizing its role in fostering the growth and economic empowerment of farmers within the county. He stated, “This deal sets the stage for the two entities to work closely in their efforts to create a sustainable pipeline for the much-needed raw material as well as elevate the status of the farmers who will benefit economically from the sale of sorghum to KBL.”
The Governor of Murang’a county, Irungu Kang’ata, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the positive impact it will have on local farmers and the county’s economic transformation. He noted, “We feel honored to support KBL’s long-term endeavors to establish a reliable pipeline source of raw materials with Murang’a emerging as one of the key areas of focus.”
The partnership’s potential for growth and economic empowerment was also echoed by Senator Joe Nyutu, who described the collaboration as a pathway to a brighter future for the region. He stated, “The partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration, as together we will cultivate not only sorghum but also opportunities, sustainability, and a brighter future for our region.”
This agreement contributes to KBL’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its sorghum and barley value chain. The company already collaborates with over 47,000 farmers across various counties including Kisumu, Migori, Siaya, Homa Bay, Busia, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Narok, and Nakuru.
KBL’s commitment to supporting local farmers has yielded significant results, as indicated by its 2022 annual report. The brewer reported disbursing a total of Sh2.6 billion to contracted farmers, demonstrating the positive impact of its interventions on local livelihoods and the economy.
This partnership with Murang’a county underscores KBL’s dedication to fostering sustainable agricultural practices and uplifting local communities through strategic collaborations that drive economic growth and development.
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