Kericho Gears Up to Celebrate Kenya’s Best Farmers at National Agriculture Awards

Kericho County is set to host the 2025 National Farmers’ Awards on December 19, placing the spotlight on the individuals and enterprises driving Kenya’s agricultural growth and food security.

The national event, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with county governments, will bring together farmers, agribusiness players, innovators, policymakers and development partners from across the country starting at 9am.

Over the years, the awards have grown beyond a ceremonial function to become the country’s most recognised platform for celebrating excellence in agriculture. They highlight achievements in productivity, value addition, job creation and innovation across the sector.

This year’s edition introduces a major shift in approach by recognising the entire agricultural value chain — from production to processing and distribution.

Awards will be presented across eight categories, including individual farmers, seed producers, agro-dealers, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), millers, manufacturers, transporters — notably motorbike operators supporting last-mile delivery — and county-level value chains.

The expanded scope reflects a policy focus on inclusive, market-oriented agricultural growth that rewards not only farmers but also processors, traders, logistics providers and counties building competitive agricultural ecosystems.

Senior national and county leaders are expected to attend, led by Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh, whose presence signals the government’s commitment to farmer-centred reforms, increased productivity, value addition and improved market access.

“These awards affirm a simple truth — Kenya’s agricultural future will be built by farmers and the entire value chain that supports them,” Ronoh said.

He added that recognising innovation, inclusion and impact across the sector strengthens incomes, boosts productivity and keeps farmers at the heart of national development.

County governments will also showcase successful grassroots initiatives, partnerships and value chain interventions that have delivered measurable benefits to farmers at the local level.

Held under the theme “Seeds of Excellence: Recognising Innovation, Inclusion and Impact in Kenyan Agriculture and the Livestock Sector,” the 2025 awards aim to inspire a new generation of agripreneurs, promote climate-smart farming practices and enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan agribusiness at both county and national levels.