Sh130 million available for borrowing by farmers

An agricultural financing company has made available Sh130 million for borrowing by small-holder farmers in Uasin Gishu County.

Apollo Agriculture, which has been financing small-scale farmers in the Eastern and Rift Valley regions, announced the funding after signing a partnership deal with Uasin Gishu County.

The firm aims to finance farmers who own between half an acre and three acres – a category that is often neglected by banks.

At least 6,000 small-holder farmers in Uasin Gishu secured loans during the 2020 season.

Apollo Agriculture co-founder Benjamin Njenga said the financing deal would help farmers obtain quality seeds, fertiliser and insure their crop.

“In our first season this year alone, Apollo has already financed over 6,000 small-holder maize farmers in Uasin Gishu County with a total of 8,350 acres under production,” Njenga said.

Uasin Gishu County Executive Member for Agriculture Samuel Yego lauded the deal, noting that financing has been a challenge to small-scale farmers, particularly the youth and women willing to venture into the sector.

Apollo Agriculture official Gladys Magut said they would expand to Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo counties.