250 smallholder farmers in Githunguri Sub County in Kenya will participate in training and market development activities to improve access to markets, enhance their marketing skills, and support organic certification processes. It is expected that at least 200 farmers will increase their sales and income through these initiatives.

Local solution
COSDEP is addressing the low demand and disjointed market access for organic produce in Kiambu County by supporting 250 smallholder farmers to develop effective marketing, packaging, and certification strategies. At the same time, the project raises consumer awareness about the health and environmental benefits of organic produce and supports farmers in obtaining affordable organic certification.

Farmers in Githunguri, particularly those who have transitioned from conventional farming, face significant challenges: limited market outlets, poor branding, lack of consumer awareness, and high certification costs. Many farmers rely on synthetic fertilizers and are unaware of organic alternatives, which limits their market potential. Community consultations with farmers revealed a strong desire to improve market access and gain recognition for their organic products. Based on this, the project offers a comprehensive approach:

In a 12-month program, farmers will receive training on packaging, labeling, and marketing techniques, with a focus on creating attractive and compliant packaging that maintains product quality. They will also participate in workshops on effective marketing strategies, including creating a unique selling proposition, pricing, and customer care. Additionally, the project will establish physical market stalls and develop an online platform (via Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok  to extend market reach beyond local markets.

To support quality assurance, the project partners with certification bodies to facilitate affordable organic certification. Farmers will receive participatory training on standards, documentation, and certification processes, including participatory guarantee systems (PGS). This will enable more farmers to obtain certification, ensuring product credibility and expanding market opportunities.

Simultaneously, community awareness campaigns will highlight the health and environmental benefits of organic produce, encouraging consumers to choose organic options. The project also fosters community participation by involving farmers actively in decision-making processes, monitoring, and evaluation, ensuring ownership and sustainability.

Post-project, farmers will continue to access markets with the support of group savings and local financial institutions, ensuring ongoing benefits and community development.

Lives Improved

250 farmers will gain improved access to markets and increased income from their organic produce and inputs while improved branding and visibility of organic products, and a strengthened network of organic producers. It is expected that at least 200 farmers will see significant income growth, enabling them to afford better housing, healthcare, and education for their families. The enhanced market visibility and certification will also empower farmers to negotiate better prices, fostering economic stability and confidence. As their livelihoods improve, farmers will be more motivated to adopt sustainable practices, reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals and promoting environmental health.

The long-term goal is to create a thriving, sustainable organic market in Kiambu County that benefits farmers, consumers, and the community as a whole.

Community Impact

Raising awareness about the benefits of organic produce will gradually shift community perceptions, encouraging more consumers to purchase organic products. The project’s visibility will empower local farmers to organize into cooperatives, fostering collaboration and collective bargaining. As consumer demand increases, local markets will thrive, and farmers’ social status will improve. Furthermore, the promotion of organic farming practices will contribute to healthier soils and ecosystems, benefitting the entire community. Over time, the increased income and awareness are expected to reduce migration from the area in search of better opportunities, strengthening the community’s resilience and sustainability.

Budget

The budget for the following activities is Ksh 5,246,900 (or € 36,767). We are raising € 31,512 through iMPACT direct. The donation will be used to:

• Improve market access by establishing and strengthening physical and online outlets for organic produce, connecting small-scale farmers directly with consumers.
• Conduct stakeholder meetings, set up stalls at local markets, and develop promotional materials.
• Equip farmers with systems to track sales and collect market data.
• Organize capacity-building workshops on packaging, labeling, and marketing.
• Promote consumer awareness through open days and advertising campaigns.
• Support organic certification processes and farmer training on participatory guarantee systems (PGS).
• Cover organizational and management costs, including personnel and communication expenses.
• 5% to iMPACT direct for facilitating direct donations to local solutions (which helps to cover costs of the website, promotion and proposal writing, costs of financial services, and the support to NGOs).

Own Contribution: COSDEP will provide training to farmers on financial management and record-keeping, including the development and dissemination of relevant training materials

Testimonials
Naomi Nyandia from Kambaa village, Gathangari Farmers Self-Help Group, says:

“Previously, I relied heavily on tea income and used synthetic fertilizers. Thanks to training from COSDEP, I shifted to organic farming. I started with a small kitchen garden to grow healthy vegetables, saving money on market purchases. This motivated me to expand on unused land, improving soil health and increasing yields. I now supply produce to the market, boosting my income, improving my health, and diversifying my farm activities. I no longer depend solely on tea for household expenses.”

George Muroki from Karweti village, Riamute Farmers Group, says, “Before joining COSDEP, I used synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for coffee and maize farming. After training with COSDEP, I shifted to organic farming and diversified into fish farming, beekeeping, poultry, vegetable production, and value addition.”