Children who are mentored practically into agribusiness are more likely to build a strong foundation that enables them to pursue agriculture as a viable career path in the future. This philosophy has guided the collaboration between Elgon Kenya and the SMACHS Foundation in transforming the lives of students at Nyanjega Primary & Junior School in Tigoni, Kiambu County.
Through the revitalized 4K Clubs program, Elgon Kenya has worked closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to reintroduce agricultural education to young learners. Although 4K Clubs have existed for years, renewed interest in recent times has helped expand their reach. Currently, there are about 1,600 schools across Kenya running these clubs. The objective is not only to teach students how to grow crops but also to show them the profitability of agriculture.
At Nyanjega School, the partners have established a 1.3-acre model farm, including vertical gardens, where students actively engage in farming activities. This hands-on experience has shown them the full cycle of agriculture from planting and nurturing crops to harvesting and selling produce. Students have earned income from the farm, giving them a tangible understanding of how agriculture can be a sustainable and profitable venture.
The initiative is deeply rooted in community connections. Elgon Kenya’s leadership has historical ties to the area, having supported the school for decades, including the daily provision of porridge since 1984. This long-standing commitment has strengthened the relationship between the company and the school community.
Beyond agriculture, the program has also supported the school’s infrastructure. New facilities, including a classroom, a modern kitchen, and a dining hall, have been constructed to enhance the learning environment. These improvements have made daily school life more comfortable and child-friendly, particularly during meal times.
The model farm initiative is also backed by the SMACHS Foundation, which plays a critical role in establishing and sustaining these projects. The foundation begins with a needs assessment in each school before helping to set up the farm. Once students and staff are trained and confident in managing the farm independently, the foundation transitions control to the school, ensuring the sustainability of the project. This model has already been replicated in several regions including Samburu and Uasin Gishu.
One of the key goals of the program is to change mindsets around agriculture. By engaging children at the primary school level, the initiative seeks to instill a long-term appreciation of where food comes from and the importance of nutrition and self-sufficiency. The hope is that in the years to come, these children will emerge as leaders in agriculture whether as policymakers, agribusiness professionals, or progressive farmers.
The students at Nyanjega School have embraced the project with enthusiasm. Initially met with skepticism by some parents, the success of the initiative has gradually won over their support. The income earned from selling kale around 100 bunches per day at 15 shillings each has been reinvested by the students in buying farm tools and expanding their farming activities. This entrepreneurial approach has not only boosted morale but also demonstrated the practical rewards of agriculture.
Through this initiative, agriculture is being reimagined as a modern, profitable, and engaging field a vision being cultivated right from the school grounds.
