AUTHOR: Mercy Ambani
In the heart of Vihiga County, a powerful agricultural transformation is unfolding. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Seed Savers Network, Bioversity International & CIAT, FAO and ITGPRFA, local farmers are now reaping the benefits of capacity-building initiatives focused on sustainable production of traditional leafy vegetables. These efforts, carried out through the Vihiga Community-Based Organization (CBO), are now bearing impressive fruit—both literally and figuratively.
The project centered on reviving and promoting the sustainable cultivation of Neglected and Underutilised Species(NUS), such as millet, sorghum cowpeas, crotalaria (commonly known as mitoo), African black nightshade (managu), Amaranth and Ethiopian kale (Kanzira). Through hands-on training and community empowerment, these vegetables, once overlooked, are now at the core of local food security and economic empowerment.
Seed Sovereignty and Food Security
One of the most notable achievements is the establishment and strengthening of the Vihiga CBO Community Seed Bank. Farmers who once struggled to access quality seeds now have reliable, well-stored seed reserves of these traditional vegetables. This has enabled consistent production cycles, ensuring both food availability at the household level and the opportunity for commercialization.
From Harvest to Income: Adding Value to Local Crops
The success of this initiative extends beyond the fields. Farmers are now engaging in value addition to reduce post-harvest losses and generate income. The vegetables are dried and processed into products that are both nutritious and market-ready.
Leading this innovation is youth chairman Evans Ochuto, who has become a local champion for agribusiness. Under his leadership, the CBO has developed a composite flour made from the dried leafy vegetables, now supplied to two local schools—Lwanda Education Centre and Neema Academy. This initiative generates a steady weekly income of KES 2,000, supporting both nutrition in schools and the livelihoods of local farmers. 
In addition, the dried vegetables are being exported by Kenyans living in the diaspora. Packed and sold at KES 2,000 per 250g, this product has opened up a new market stream, earning sellers up to KES 50,000. This is a testament to the market potential of traditional crops when coupled with innovation and entrepreneurship.
Expanding Impact: Youth and Women at the Forefront
The Vihiga CBO has grown rapidly—from a modest group to 500 members drawn from all five sub-counties in Vihiga. The membership includes 100 youth, 50 men, and a remarkable 350 women, showcasing strong female participation in the movement toward food sovereignty and climate-smart agriculture.
The CBO is also now linked to a SACCO to promote savings and financial resilience among its members. This integration of agriculture and financial literacy is helping members build long-term economic stability.
A Hub for Learning and Research
The initiative has also become a center for learning and academic exchange. Currently, the CBO is hosting:
- Students from Kisii University and Maseno University
- A student from Bukura Agricultural College
- Two passionate volunteers
These learners are engaging directly with the farmers, gaining real-world knowledge on sustainable agriculture, seed banking and community-based development.
Conclusion
The Vihiga CBO is a shining example of how traditional knowledge, when empowered with modern techniques and institutional support, can transform communities. From improved nutrition and income generation to education and youth empowerment, this initiative is a model of inclusive and sustainable rural development.
As the movement grows, so too does the hope that other communities will follow in these footsteps—reviving their indigenous crops, safeguarding biodiversity, and building resilient food systems for generations to come.