7,000 Avocado Seedlings Distributed in Kapsumai to Boost Conservation and Livelihoods

A major milestone in environmental conservation and community empowerment was achieved on Friday as over 7,000 avocado seedlings were distributed to farmers across Kapsumai Location in Elgeyo-Marakwet County.

The initiative, spearheaded by Elgeyo-Marakwet Deputy Governor H.E. Prof. Grace Cheserek and coordinated by Komen Shule, brought together hundreds of enthusiastic farmers from the farming centres of Matira, Koibaben, Kapsumai, and Sinon.

The tree-planting exercise is part of a countywide program rolling out across various wards, with seedling distribution tailored to the ecological suitability of each area. Friday’s activity focused on avocado seedlings, selected for both their environmental and economic value.

 “This initiative is about more than just planting trees—it’s about building resilient livelihoods, creating new income streams for our people, and empowering women and youth to be independent and self-reliant,” said Prof. Cheserek during the event.

The turnout was described as “outstanding,” with residents expressing strong enthusiasm for the program, which combines conservation with income generation. Many farmers noted the long-term benefits of avocado farming, which can provide stable earnings once the trees mature and begin to bear fruit.

Komen Shule Technical Advisor to  Elgeyo Marakwet Deputy Governor

said the  initiative aligns with the county government’s broader goals of promoting sustainable agriculture, mitigating the effects of climate change, and fostering socio-economic development in rural areas.

"Among the expected benefits of the program are:Improved environmental conservation through increased tree cover,enhanced economic opportunities for households through avocado farming, mpowerment of marginalized groups, particularly women and youth and knnowledge sharing and increased capacity for sustainable farming practices," he saks.

Shule  emphasized that the program would continue in other wards, with different types of seedlings distributed based on the local ecological needs and farming potential.

“We are laying a foundation not just for greener landscapes, but for a stronger, more independent and sustainable future for our communities,” he added.

The success of the Kapsumai rollout sets the tone for similar events across the county as Elgeyo-Marakwet positions itself as a leader in community-driven conservation and climate-smart agriculture.