Bukura, Kenya – May 27, 2025
By Kurian Musa
A four-year agricultural research initiative culminated in a vibrant End of Project Dissemination Seminar at Bukura Agricultural Training Centre (ATC). The seminar brought together farmers, stakeholders, and the Egerton University research team led by Director of Research and Extension, Prof. George Owuor.
Bukura ATC Principal, Christabeal Makario Isanda, welcomed the guests, commending the collaboration between research institutions and local communities. “We give institutions an opportunity to work with the community in this area,” she said, encouraging more organizations to use Bukura ATC for trials, implementation, and farmer engagement. She further invited stakeholders to partner with the centre in advancing the adoption of new technologies and innovative research.
Prof. Arnold Opiyo, Principal Investigator of the InNuSens Project from Egerton University, emphasized community-based work in partnership with the Jitahidi Group in Bukura. The InNuSens initiative included collaboration with IREN (Indigenous Vegetable, Process and Sell in Dry Format) in Shianda, tapping into the Lake Region Economic Bloc for sustainable value chains.
Representatives from Rural Outreach Africa, Vihiga County’s Department of Agriculture, KEPHIS, and Bukura Agricultural College were also in attendance.
Prof. Owuor lauded Bukura ATC for its historical and continued commitment to farmer training since 1959. “We are happy to re-ignite this relationship and deepen collaborations,” he noted, referencing previous partnerships such as the SIMLESA project. He urged farmer groups to register and join training networks to facilitate better access to emerging technologies and support services.
On African vegetables, Prof. Owuor encouraged value addition for improved income and sustainability. He announced an upcoming project focusing on food safety in Africa and called on organized groups to apply for participation.
“This is not just a closure, but a doorway to stronger community research partnerships,” he concluded.
