Uasin Gishu County Empowers Farmers with High-Quality Pasture Seeds Under FLLoCA Program

 

In a major stride toward climate resilience and sustainable agriculture, the Uasin Gishu County Government has distributed high-quality pasture seeds to over 200 farmers in Soy Sub-County as part of the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Program.

The initiative, launched during a seed distribution event at Soy Ward, brought together farmer groups from Kaptait FCS, Soy Merewet FCS, Mateny FCS, and Soy Navillus FCS. In addition to receiving pasture seeds, farmers were trained on modern pasture production techniques and educated on the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable livestock farming.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Isaac Chirchir Tamogei, Member of County Assembly for the area, emphasized the broader vision of the program. “This initiative is not only about improving livestock productivity—it’s about transforming livelihoods. With FLLoCA, we are creating impact across multiple sectors including agriculture, water management, drainage, and crop diversification,” he said.

The pasture seed varieties distributed include:

• Desmodium
• Panicum maximum
• Boma Rhodes
• Lucerne
• Forage sorghum

These drought-resistant and nutrient-rich pastures are expected to enhance both the quality and quantity of livestock feed, improving milk and meat production, animal health, and overall household income.

Farmers expressed optimism and gratitude, noting that consistent access to high-quality pasture has long been a barrier in the region—especially under the pressures of climate change. “With these seeds, we are hopeful that our animals will thrive, and so will our businesses,” said one beneficiary.

The intervention is part of Uasin Gishu’s broader commitment to community-led climate action. By leveraging FLLoCA funding and locally tailored solutions, the county aims to strengthen food security, reduce vulnerability to climate shocks, and promote environmental sustainability.

County officials confirmed that the FLLoCA program will continue to be expanded across all sub-counties, with a strong focus on monitoring results, farmer training, and replication of successful practices.

As climate change continues to pose challenges to food systems, Uasin Gishu County’s investment in local adaptation strategies positions it as a model for proactive, people-centered climate resilience in Kenya.

May 31, 2025