Sustainability has become an increasingly important topic in agriculture. Alongside environmental protection, supporting smallholder farmers plays an important role in the long-term development of agricultural value chains.
Since its foundation, LIMBUA has been working with more than 9,000 organically certified contracted smallholder farmers in Kenya. Through regular training, we support farmers in developing their knowledge, implementing organic farming practices, and meeting the requirements of internationally recognized certification standards.
What does the program look like?
Each year, all of LIMBUA's contracted smallholder farmers take part in regular training sessions and workshops held across rural Kenya. Farmers gain practical knowledge on the use of farming equipment, organic farming practices, and the tools and inputs permitted under the respective certification standards. They also learn how to maintain and improve soil fertility, prepare for external inspections and certification audits, and further develop their farming practices.
Our training sessions provide both theoretical knowledge and practical guidance, enabling farmers to implement organic farming principles on their farms. They also learn good agricultural and environmental practices that support the long-term development of their farms.
We also provide a digital platform that enables farmers to connect with one another and with LIMBUA's field team. This facilitates knowledge sharing and strengthens cooperation among farmers. Through our cooperation with local banks, farmers also gain access to financial literacy training and easier access to credit.
Digital registration via fingerprint scan
What does the training involve?
Our LIMBUA field team regularly visits farms throughout Kenya and organizes training sessions attended by around 250 smallholder farmers each. LIMBUA provides the training facilities, meals and refreshments, as well as a travel allowance for participants. Upon completion, farmers receive a certificate of participation.
Field Manager Mary Muli during a training session
Why are we doing this?
As a social enterprise, LIMBUA's focus extends beyond generating profits. Our aim is to build value chains that benefit smallholder farmers, traders, processors, and customers alike. Fair working conditions, fair prices, and long-term partnerships are important elements of this approach. To achieve these goals, continuous training for farmers at the beginning of the value chain is essential.
Through these training programs, LIMBUA supports farmers in implementing certified organic farming practices and meeting the requirements of internationally recognized certification standards. Rather than searching for existing suppliers, LIMBUA works directly with farmers and supports them through regular training and advisory services. Farmers' feedback also helps us continuously improve our training programs.
Today, LIMBUA works with more than 9,000 contracted smallholder farmers and purchases their harvests. Their organically certified macadamias, avocados, and mangoes are processed at LIMBUA's own production facilities. This forms the basis for certifications such as EU Organic, Fair for Life, Naturland, Demeter, Bio Suisse, Rainforest Alliance, and Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC).
