In the heart of Kenya’s Kajiado South sub-county, the story of Leshan, a 33-year-old government field officer, unfolds. Leshan works with the National Government Constituency Development Fund in Kimana ward, and his journey is one of relentless commitment and boundless spirit.
In November 2022, Leshan embarked on a transformative journey as part of the first cohort of the Wezesha program. Despite the vast geographical distance between his home in Kimana ward and the Wezesha Agri project in Nkama, Leshan’s dedication to the program had been unwavering. By April 2023, he had graduated, equipped with new skills and a renewed vision for his future.
This training ignited a passion within Leshan, something extraordinary that he had never imagined possible.
A local perspective on struggles
As a community officer and resident of Kimana ward, Leshan has a unique perspective on the harsh realities his community faces. He has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of relentless drought—plummeting crop productivity, dwindling soil fertility, frail livestock, and an alarming rise in livestock mortality among the agro-pastoral community. These challenges, however, did not deter him. Instead, they fueled his determination to find solutions and make a difference.
Kimana Ward is renowned as the second-largest producer of tomatoes in Kenya, with most large commercial farmers producing horticultural crops. However, before joining the Wezesha program, Leshan had limited knowledge of farming and agribusiness. He practiced small-scale crop farming but recognized a critical gap in the market—there was a significant opportunity in seedling propagation that he could explore.
While participating in Wezesha’s comprehensive training sessions, Leshan’s interest in seedling propagation grew exponentially. He actively engaged with the farm’s expert team, delving deep into seed propagation management at the Wezesha greenhouse. He learned invaluable climate-smart approaches to seedling propagation and identified a potential agribusiness venture—supplying certified seedlings to small-scale farmers in the Kimana ward.
Driven by his vision, Leshan marshaled his savings and borrowed from family members to invest in constructing an 8-meter by 15-meter greenhouse, totaling KES. 250,000. This strategically located greenhouse, just a stone’s throw from Kimana town, holds immense market potential.
Wezesha’s Incubation Support
How does Wezesha come in? The Wezesha program is incubating Leshan’s enterprise at the Wezesha demo farm to fortify his agribusiness endeavor. This incubation offers Leshan a lifeline of support in several ways:
- Hands-on expertise: Leshan has the unique opportunity to work directly and gain mastery in seed propagation at the Wezesha farm.
- Access to resources: He leverages the propagation infrastructure and equipment at the demo farm to produce his initial seedlings.
- Guidance and expertise: Technical support and advice from Wezesha’s agricultural partners, trainers, and project team are available as he sets up his enterprise.
- Ready market: Leshan has access to a potential market of over 580 farmers from the Wezesha community attending weekly training sessions in the current second cohort.
- Networking and partnerships: He taps into Wezesha’s extensive network and contacts, forging relationships vital for his business growth.
- Building resilience: Leshan gains the confidence and business acumen necessary for a thriving, sustainable enterprise.
The spirit of resilience and entrepreneurship
Leshan’s journey, from drought-stricken fields to flourishing greenhouses, embodies the spirit of resilience and entrepreneurship. With Wezesha’s unwavering support, he is transforming his vision into reality, nurturing not only his business but also the agricultural landscape of Kimana Ward.
This transformation is more than just about growing seedlings; it’s about growing hope, resilience, and a sustainable future for his community. Leshan’s story is a testament to what can be achieved with determination, the right support, and a vision for a better tomorrow.
Conclusion
Leshan’s story is one of many that highlight the incredible impact that programs like Wezesha can have on individuals and communities. By leveraging the training, resources, and support provided by Wezesha, Leshan has not only built a sustainable business but has also become a beacon of hope for his community.
As we celebrate MSMEs and the incredible contributions of individuals like Leshan, it is essential to recognize and support the programs that make such transformations possible. The success of small and medium enterprises is vital for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development, particularly in vulnerable communities. Leshan’s story is a reminder of the potential that lies within each individual when given the right opportunities and support.