Learn more about how your generosity is growing this pilot program in Kenya.
Thanks to your support last holiday season, a pilot for a new Irrigation Agent Program in Kenya is underway. Thirty recent graduates from agricultural colleges have been hired and will be trained as Irrigation Agents. Their mission is to rent irrigation pumps to smallholder farmers in their communities.
KickStart International launched this pilot to make irrigation easy to get and affordable. The model is called Rent to Try and Buy (R2T&B).
This pilot will test whether renting irrigation pumps makes irrigation more accessible for farmers who can’t afford or are hesitant to buy a pump.
Starting in April, farmers can rent irrigation pumps from trained Sales Agents for just $1 per day. Over the next year, this program will assess whether pump rentals provide a viable solution for farmers and create a sustainable business opportunity for young entrepreneurs.
Agriculture is a major part of Kenya’s economy. It contributes 33% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs over 70% of rural workers. Even though Kenya’s economy is growing, more than one-third of people still live in poverty. Food shortages are a big problem. Children are left vulnerable and suffering from malnutrition.
Smallholder farmers depend on rain to grow their crops. But rainfall is becoming less reliable due to climate change. Farmers often struggle with poor harvests, food shortages, and financial losses.
This program aims to:
Despite Kenya's reliance on farming, only 3% of farmland is irrigated, leaving most farmers at the mercy of unpredictable rainfall.
Challenges Farmers Face
Without irrigation, only 6% of farmers can grow crops in dry seasons, leaving fields empty and incomes unstable.
The Rent to Try and Buy (R2T&B) Pilot Program is designed to help farmers overcome these challenges. Instead of requiring a large upfront purchase, farmers can rent an irrigation pump from a trained Sales Agent for just $1 per day.
This approach lowers farmers’ risks and allows them to see if irrigation improves their crops before investing more. The program also provides hands-on training so farmers learn how to use irrigation effectively.
The success of this program depends on trained Irrigation Sales Agents. These young professionals do much more than rent pumps—they help farmers succeed.
Sales Agents teach farmers how to use irrigation systems correctly and provide maintenance so pumps stay in good working condition. They also share advice on planting techniques, soil care, and smart budgeting so farmers can save money and invest in their farms. In addition, they help farmers access seeds and fertilizers to improve their harvests.
With irrigation, farmers can increase their crop yield by 400% in just one harvest, growing enough food for their families and up to 50 people in their community. They can also sell extra crops during dry seasons when food prices are higher, helping them earn a steady income all year.
Irrigation Agents are going through a detailed training to prepare for their jobs. They learn how to explain the benefits of irrigation, build trust with farmers, and handle financial transactions. They also gain skills in farm management, irrigation techniques, and pump maintenance.
Agents will also use a Irrigation Agent Commcare App on their phones to make their work easier. This mobile tool helps them keep track of farmers, rental transactions, and payments. The app also provides training videos and connects agents for support. With these tools, agents can stay organized and provide better service to farmers.
This program is about more than just irrigation—it’s about improving lives and strengthening local economies.
How It’s Making a Difference
This pilot program can potentially expand and help thousands of farmers across Kenya.
This program is expected to:
This program will strengthen food security and reduce hunger in vulnerable communities by giving farmers the tools to grow more food.
Right now, climate change is making farming tougher, and USAID food aid is at risk. But this program offers a real solution—one that empowers farmers.
Over the next year, this innovative program will test whether pump rentals can transform farming—helping farmers grow more while creating a sustainable business for young entrepreneurs.
This kind of bold innovation is only possible because of generous supporters like you. When you give, you’re not just funding a pilot—you’re fueling progress. Want to have an even bigger impact? Join our Collective and be part of the movement driving new solutions forward!
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