Stronger Together: Empowering Youth Agripreneurs in Kenya
Author: Grace Nzou, Niusline Media
Strong economic prospects support a strong democracy. In Elgeyo Marakwet County, agribusiness provides an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to access a brighter future. That starts with getting organized and getting connected. To empower youth to engage in democratic spaces and establish competitive, ethical enterprises, the FEDN Secretariat funded the small grant project “Using Democratic Spaces to Promote Ethical Practices in Business,” administered by Niusline Media and REST Hub.
Entrepreneurs Embrace Ethics to Scale Up Their Businesses
During the initial phase, implemented between 2022 and 2023, 90 young individuals received training in ethical entrepreneurship and budgeting processes.
“Our primary objectives were clear: to shift the mindset of youth from mere farming to embracing agribusiness and to raise awareness about the democratic avenues available for engagement with stakeholders to demand a conducive business environment and accountability in public fund utilization.” – Grace Nzou, CEO of Niusline Media
While the first phase was successful in broadening the youths’ perspectives on democratic governance and ethical business practices, it became evident that further support was needed. Thus, in the subsequent phase conducted from 2023 to 2024, the top 30 youth agripreneurs were selected for mentorship and practical training on engaging with duty bearers and implementing ethical standards within their enterprises.
Enhanced Awareness Leads to New Opportunities
This engagement empowered entrepreneurs to formalize their businesses through registration, opening doors to new markets and opportunities necessary for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) to flourish and compete. For instance, Violet, a vegetable vendor in Iten market, expanded her offerings and clientele base significantly, thanks to the newfound confidence and structured approach instilled by ethical entrepreneurship training.
Similarly, Victor, a veterinarian, diversified his business after learning about affirmative action opportunities like the AGPO (Access to Government Procurement Opportunities) system. Through this knowledge, he secured a lucrative tender to supply water to the County Assembly, transforming his seasonal business into a year-round success.
Recognizing the power of collective action, the youth formed the County Youth Agribusiness Cooperative Society (CYA Cooperative Society), dedicated to enhancing marketing opportunities and advocating for a conducive business environment. Through this platform, they actively engaged with duty bearers, presenting memos, attending public forums, and negotiating for policy changes and improved service delivery.
“Their efforts bore fruit as evidenced during the Finance Bill of 2023/24, where they successfully influenced policy decisions, improved service delivery, and enhanced civic space, all contributing to the betterment of their community. These achievements, among many others, were made possible through the support of FEDN.” – Edwin Ronoh, Executive Director RESTHUB Kenya
Larger Networks Compound Success
The cooperative society doesn’t operate in isolation. By joining the KNCCI Uasin Gishu Chapter, the group tapped into the benefits of collective action and established credibility, opening doors to financing opportunities and broader networks. Additionally, the society’s membership in the Elgeyo Marakwet CSO Consortium and involvement in various committees further solidified the members’ influence and impact within the region.
Looking ahead, the future appears promising for CYA Cooperative Society and the agripreneurs of Elgeyo Marakwet County. Through continued collaboration, advocacy, and ethical practices, they are poised to drive meaningful change and prosperity within their community and beyond.