14 April 2026, Bungoma: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has delivered essential farm inputs to maize farmers in Bungoma County participating in the field-based learning and demonstration trials under farmer field schools (FFS) approach. Farmers are acquiring innovative skills for the management of fall armyworm (FAW).
The support, provided through the FAO-Chinese-funded South–South Cooperation for fall armyworm, includes 50 bags of CAN fertilizer, 50 bags of DAP fertilizer and 338 kilograms of assorted maize seeds, timed to assist farmers in preparing for the 2026 long rains planting season.
Farmer-to-farmer learning
About 1 300 farmers will benefit from facilitator-led, peer-to-peer training during the scheduled 2026 long rain trials. In this trial, participants will engage in weekly sessions and establish “baby plots” at home to replicate and reinforce integrated pest management practices learned during field activities.
Speaking at the flag-off of the input distribution at Mabanga Agricultural Training Centre, FFS Chairman in Bungoma County, Peter Waboya, expressed gratitude for the support, noting that it will enhance farmers’ capacities and strengthen food security across the county.
“This project marks a turning point for Bungoma farmers,” Waboya said, emphasizing the importance of commitment and active participation in FFS activities.
The farmers have committed to applying the new knowledge and skills they acquire and to sharing best practices in FAW management with partners and fellow farmers, highlighting the growing impact of collaborative agricultural development efforts.
Scaling up farmer training
Building on the successful farmer-to-farmer learning implemented across 25 FFS in Bungoma during the 2025 short rains maize season, plans are underway to scale up the initiative to reach more farmers across the county.
The short rain trials concluded with vibrant field days at four high-performing FFS sites, drawing farmers from beyond the initial groups and showcasing proven FAW management practices. These events offered hands-on training and practical demonstrations for both farmers and extension personnel, covering pest monitoring, informed decision-making, and sustainable control methods. Ends
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