Biovision Africa Trust (BvAT), represented by Fredrick Ochieng, Head of the Farmer Communication Programme, recently took part in a planning workshop organized by FAO Kenya in Kapsabet town from October 22 to 25, 2024. The workshop aimed to bring together key stakeholders to strategize on the policy component of the BOOST Project, an EU-funded initiative committed to boosting sustainable food production in Kenya.
The workshop focused on promoting agroecological and innovative approaches to improve agricultural production in five counties: Kakamega, Bungoma, Nandi, Homabay, and Migori.
Key Objectives of the workshop included:
- Collaborative Policy Ideation: Brainstorming and prioritizing actionable policy recommendations to support agroecological practices.
- Action Plan Development: Establishing a clear action plan with timelines and responsibilities for counties to develop agroecology policies.
- Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of successful agroecological practices and policies from different regions.
The workshop gathered County Directors, senior technical staff from the five project counties, and representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), including BvAT, SNV, and Pelum Kenya.
During the sessions BvAT presented its ongoing work relevant to policy development initiatives, particularly in Bungoma and Kakamega counties where BvAT has direct operations. Murang’a and Vihiga counties also presented their experiences and lessons learned in developing agroecology policies. Together, participants created a policy implementation plan to help each county develop specific plans to be shared later with FAO.
BvAT engaged on side meetings with FAO Kenya staff to explore collaboration within the BOOST Project, particularly on implementing the capacity-building component. Another side meeting was held with Bungoma County officials who expressed interest to partner with BvAT to review their agricultural policy in order to integrate agroecological practices and develop an Agroecology Strategy under the BOOST Project.
BvAT’s active involvement in BOOST project activities will be crucial for fostering collaboration and identifying future project opportunities. The continued partnership with FAO Kenya positions Biovision Africa Trust as a vital player in promoting sustainable agricultural practices across Kenya’s counties.
Prepared by Fredrick Ochieng
