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Governor's Day with Farmers – For more discussion with local actors

2023-03-29

By Larissa Stiem-Bhatia and William Onura

In agriculture, it remains important to include political stakeholders in the discourse. To build the bridge between practical application and political action, the think tank TMG launched the Governor's Day with Farmers in Kakamega County, Kenya. It has now taken place for the second time. But what are the goals and benefits of the Governor's Day?

Governor Barasa speaks to participants at Governor's Day with Farmers 2023. © Peter Muriungi

By TMG Research gGmbH

TMG Research gGmbH as part of the TMG Think Tank for Sustainability supports the implementation of sustainable development targets and the Paris Climate Agreement. The work of TMG Research gGmbH aims to listen to the voices of local actors in global processes while at the same time influencing the global processes in such a way that they become effective for concrete transformation processes at the national and local level

All contributions

Kakamega County, in the western part of Kenya, can be viewed as a text book case of unfulfilled potential. While it has not escaped the ravages of climate change, the county enjoys relatively high rainfall and an abundance of fertile land. Yet, according to the Kakamega County government, three out of ten county residents are food insecure.

Currently, policies to boost agricultural production and farm-based livelihoods rarely involve farmers and other community-level stakeholders who experience these realities every day. However, farmers need – and should – play a vital role in the governance of food systems (transformation). This disconnect was the trigger for an innovative county-wide initiative: Governor’s Day with Farmers.

With support from TMG Research GmbH and the German development organization GIZ, a network of local women and farmer organizations approached the Kakamega County government to propose a new approach for farmers to directly influence agri-food policy. Held for the first time in February 2022, Governor’s Day with Farmers (GDF) was convened by Shibuye Community Health Workers (CHW), a community-based women’s organization, the Kakamega County Farmers Association (KACOFA) – which is part of the umbrella Kenya National Farmers’ Federation – the Kakamega Youth Agripreneurs, and the county government.

The GDF was conceptualized as more than an event.

It aims to become a county-wide (and eventually national) platform through which farmers can interact directly with the political leadership in the agri-food sector to address their concerns and interests.

Farmers’ issues are presented in the form of a declaration, which is endorsed by the Governor, other top policy makers, and farmer representatives at the close of the Day. As highlighted by Violet Shivutse, Director of Shibuye CHW, the declaration is more than a piece of paper. The ultimate goal is to ensure that issues raised by farmers are taken up in the county planning process, so they can become mainstreamed in county budgets and programme implementation. Reflecting on the first GDF, she expresses pride that upon signing the first Declaration, “… the Governor even instructed the county minister of agriculture to go ahead and give us someone from the county who can work with us as communities, as farmers, to ensure that it goes into the [county development] plan.”

Ich bin ein Alternativtext — Violet Shivutse, Head of Shibuye CHW, and Habakkuk Khamaala, Chairman of KACOFA, sign copies of the GDF 2023 Declaration in the presence of Governor Barasa. © Boniface Mmbeshi / Shibuye CHW

The 2023 GDF Declaration highlighted the following issues of concern: extension service delivery, access to land, farmer representation in policy making and county flagship projects and soil health, and markets. Governor Barasa affirmed his commitment to improving extension services as a key priority. This was further underlined by county agriculture minister Benjamin Andama, who noted the reason: “The issue of extension is key because that's where information is going to be disseminated and that's where we are going to reach that farmer.”

With so many farmers’ fairs and multi-stakeholder platforms mushrooming in the country, many might wonder what is unique about the GDF.

Broadening the base: The successful conclusion of the second Governor’s Day with Farmers on 22nd of February this year has made it more apparent that this initiative could evolve into a truly farmer-driven, and collaborative initiative. While the first GDF was largely organized and funded as part of a TMG research project, the second GDF was entirely led by local farmers and civil society organizations – with women as a key driving force. Moreover, a broader and more diverse set of co-host organizations was involved in planning and organization of the event, including Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Anglican Development Services, Cereal Growers Association, and Transparency International.

Growing legitimacy: Second, the GDF has significantly grown in size in just one year, indicating its potential to continue to magnify farmers voices, strengthen their negotiation power and put pressure on politicians to live up to their commitments. Around 2,000 farmers – double the number of at the inaugural edition – witnessed the signing of the farmers’ declaration by their Governor. As noted by Violet Shivutse, the high number of farmers – and potential voters – really matters: “So the number of farmers showing up to the governor's Day already exerts pressure on the governor to say: Oh look here, we are watching, we want you to do this.”

Strengthening accountability: Third, the GDF provides a unique opportunity for direct interaction between farmers and the top policy makers. As observed by Jael Omunyang’oli, County Assembly member, the objective of GDF is “… number one, to have a sit down, or round table engagement, with the policymakers to ensure that if there's any legislation that is pending, if there's any idea, they want to put forth for the policymakers, it can be tabled on that day.”

The continuing success of Governor’s Day with Farmers will, however, depend on the extent of effort made in preparing for and following up with the relevant stakeholders.

The process did not end with the celebration at Bukura Agricultural Training Centre, as noted by Habakkuk Khaamala, KACOFA Chairperson, but requires intensive follow up. He emphasized KACOFA’s commitment to continue to engage the county government through the Ministry of Agriculture, “…to make sure that all the topics on the declarations have been acted on.“

Food and nutrition security, intact ecosystems and sustainable rural development are becoming more crucial as the world faces increasing hunger, climate change and ecological degradation challenges. In an effort to transform our food systems, policy makers, researchers, and programme implementers are pondering on the question of how such transformation processes can be governed while ensuring the relevant stakeholders have a seat at the table.

The Governor’s Day with Farmers can be one piece of this puzzle by giving farmers and local communities a strong voice.

Habakkuk Khaamala, Chairperson of KACOFA, sees a lot of potential in the GDF, not only in Kakamega, but the entire country. “If we have many counties having the Governor's Day, it will become a strong farmers’ movement and better show how [policy makers] can assist the farmers and include them even further in policy making.”

This article has been published first on the TMG website.

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A Conversation with Carmen Torres Ledezma & Oluwaseyi Kehinde-Peters

Female Leadership is vital to the transformation of agriculture and food systems. Therefore, it is so important to advance gender-sensitive approaches to increase the presence of women in leadership positions in agricultural production and to make these systems more equitable, sustainable and resilient.

A woman in a blue sari arranges white silk cocoons on a woven wall in a rural setting.

Gender-Transformative Approaches – Unlocking Everyone’s Potential

A Contribution by GIZ

Studies show that women often manage agricultural resources more effectively and sustainably. With equal access to production resources, agricultural yields could increase by up tp 30 per cent. But this is about more than just productivity. How can gender-transformative approaches (GTA) drive meaningful change and why are GTA key to sustainable change?

A woman at a trade show proudly displays organic food products in front of a booth showcasing diverse packaged goods.

BIOFACH as a game changer for organic producers

A Contribution by Claudia Jordan

In 2025, GIZ and the Import Promotion Desk (IPD) celebrate ten years of successful cooperation. With their joint stand at BIOFACH trade fair in Nuremberg, they were able to introduce over 300 organic companies of partner countries to the European market. And the journey continues – despite challenges on the global market.

A diverse group of professionals gather for a conference, posing together in a spacious lobby surrounded by greenery.

Adapted financial services – a key to transformation

A Contribution by GIZ

In March, delegations from nine partner countries met in Berlin at the Partner Conference Scaling Access to Finance for Agripreneurs. Alongside AUDA-NEPAD, IFAD, BMZ, GIZ, and others, around 100 participants worked on practical solutions to support financial inclusion in agricultural transformation and hand over their conclusions to the AU's Kampala CAADP process.

A portable radio with an extended antenna sits on freshly cut grass in a field. | © GIZ Ursula Meissner

Twelve countries, two podcasts, one goal 

A Contribution by GIZ

Two new podcast formats from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) bring stories from on-the-ground project work to life: "Over to you!" from Malawi and "Voices of Change – Beneficiary Story Book" from Zambia. At the heart of these podcasts are the people behind the changes toward sustainable food security.

Two farmers attentively inspect rice plants in a lush, green field, showcasing agricultural dedication.

The price isn’t everything

By Bettina Rühl

In Togo’s capital, Lomé, home-grown rice costs almost twice as much as the imported product from Thailand. Yet there are good reasons for preferring the local product

"We are not Uber for tractors"

Interview with Jehiel Oliver

Jehiel Oliver was a successful consultant. One day, he quit his job in investment banking to become a social entrepreneur. His mission: tractors for Africa. Rental tractors. What gave him that idea? Find out in his interview with Jan Rübel.

A diverse group attentively listens to two men explaining equipment at an event in Burkina Faso.

The farmes themselves are the benchmark

A contribution by Andreas Quiring

Strong farmes are the key to a self-determined, sustainable development. Social innovations can help make the farmers’ actual needs the benchmark.

A smiling woman in a vibrant blue patterned outfit stands confidently holding documents, with a group gathered in the background.

“They said: You can do it”

A contribution by Bread for the World

As President of the IABM cooperative in Muhanga, Alphonsine Mukankusi is not simply focused on the figures. She has learned how to deal with people and how to take on responsibility. At the same time, her work helps her to come to terms with the past

Read more “They said: You can do it”

Two people wearing conical hats are working in a lush green rice field, engaging in a focused discussion.

'The Doors are Open - We Farmers are Ready'

An Interview with Shamika Mone (INOFO) and Elizabeth Nsimadala (EAFF)

At the UN Food Systems Summit, farmers organizations have been represented on the international stage for the first time ever. Two representatives talk about bridging personal aspirations with the representation of regional needs and international negotiations.

Participants in a conference raise their hands to engage in a discussion on shaping food systems.

‘Invite yourself’ – Farmers organisations as key stakeholders of food systems

A Contribution by Andreas-Hermes-Akademie

The Andreas Hermes Academy (AHA) discusses the transformation of food systems with 30 representatives of farmers organisations.

A woman in a colorful dress and hat works with a hoe in a vast, barren field under a cloudy sky.

Farmers' organizations want to be involved in designing agricultural policy

An interview with Kolyang Palebele

Four interviews kick off the relaunch under the new name „Food4Transformation“, asking the same questions from different perspectives. "Women and young people need access to land. And they need financial support to cultivate this land." - says Kolyang Palebele, President of the Pan African Farmers Organisation (PAFO).

A man waters crops in a sunlit field using a green watering can, promoting sustainable agriculture practices.

Strengthening the market linkages of smallholders in the face of global supply shocks

A Contribution by Niladri Sekhar Bagchi

The consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine have enabled many countries to open up new export markets for their agricultural goods. However, smallholder farms have been largely left out. Drawing on his experience in India, our author gives a brief overview of how this can be changed.

Vibrant Abidjan market scene with vendors balancing colorful fruits on their heads, creating a lively atmosphere. | © GIZ Toni-Kaatz-Dubberke

Young farmers as custodians of transformation

An Interview with William Madudike

How can rural economies become viable and modern? William Madudike, youth representative of the Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) and a potato farmer himself, examines this question. He argues that the whole rural economy and actors from producers to consumers need to be considered. An interview on the initiative role of youth.

A woman in a blue headscarf carries freshly harvested onions in a vibrant field, showcasing sustainable solar irrigation.

Learning from Each Other

An Interview with Dr. Jacqueline Mkindi

Partnerships are needed to face the multiple shocks for food systems. This is what Dr. Jacqueline Mkindi, president of the Agriculture Council Tanzania (ACT) and CEO of the Tanzanian Horticulture Association (TAHA) states.

Where Goats Listen to the Radio

A Contribution by GIZ

German and Ugandan women farmers come together in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to exchange experiences – from modern milking systems to the challenges of women's participation in agricultural decision-making. Amid goats, lavender ice cream, and engaging discussions, one thing becomes clear: women can achieve great things together, across borders and generations.

A woman sorts cocoa beans in a wooden tray, wearing a colorful floral shirt and traditional patterned skirt.

"We didn't even make it halfway"

Interview with Claudia Brück and Torben Erbrath

The demand for fair-trade cocoa is growing – but how is the industry responding? In an interview, Claudia Brück, Executive Board Member of Fairtrade Germany, and Dr. Torben Erbrath, Managing Director of the Federal Association of the German Confectionery Industry, discuss progress as well as challenges, and why real change can only be achieved through long-term commitment along the entire supply chain.

Three people, including one in a wheelchair, move along a concrete floor, symbolizing inclusion in agrichains.

“We will be more in ten years' time”

A Conversation with Pratima Gurung

Pratima Gurung has been advocating for the rights of Indigenous women with disabilities for years – in Nepal, across Asia, and globally. In this interview, she discusses progress, ongoing challenges, and why inclusion is a global issue that concerns us all. Her message: political spaces must be inclusive and intersectional.

The white paper cover on a green gradient background discusses financing agrifood systems for sustainable development.

Financing Agrifood Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity

A Contribution by Global Donor Platform for Rural Development

The Global Donor Platform for Rural Development has recently published a new White Paper titled “Financing Agrifood Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity.” It outlines a practical agenda to unlock the capital, partnerships, and innovation required to drive change at scale.

A man wearing traditional attire and a purple hat stands outdoors in front of trees and a building.

"We have high expectations of the Kampala Declaration"

An Interview with Lawani Arouna

The rural population and vulnerable groups should be involved in the implementation of the African Union's Kampala Declaration on the transformation of agricultural and food systems. This is the demand of sociologist Lawani Arouna, Vice President of the Regional umbrella organisation of farmers' associations in West Africa (ROPPA).

A group of women stands smiling on a lawn in Herrsching am Ammersee, surrounded by lush greenery and a building.

"We want to change the narrative of rural women"

A Contribution by GIZ

Development cooperation doesn't resonate in Germany? The Bavarian rural women have a different story to tell. A visit to a training session with female smallholder farmers from Kenya, Zambia and Uganda in Bavarian Herrsching am Ammersee.

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Governor's Day with Farmers – For more discussion with local actors

By TMG Research gGmbH

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