Eric Kairo’s Onion Farming Journey
Eric Kairo’s Onion Farming Journey
When Eric Kairo planted his first onions in 2011, he was working with just a quarter acre of land under a rain fed farming system. Like many smallholder farmers, his biggest challenge was water. Without a farm pond or irrigation infrastructure, his harvests depended entirely on rainfall, often unpredictable and unreliable.
Despite these constraints, Eric persevered. That first season, he harvested three tons of onions and earned KES 180,000, selling at KES 60 per unit. It was a promising start, but he knew that to grow further, he needed a more reliable water source.
A Turning Point: Access to Irrigation Water
In 2022, Eric’s farming journey took a transformative turn when he connected to irrigation water from the Kanyuthe Irrigation Water Project. The project, implemented under the Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project (KCSAP) through the County Government of Nyeri and funded by the World Bank, opened new possibilities for his farm.
With access to irrigation water, Eric expanded his onion farm from half an acre to a full acre. More importantly, he shifted from depending on rainfall to using modern irrigation technologies, including rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation systems.
“The difference was immediate,” Eric recalls. “I can now use water several times more efficiently than before. Irrigation allows me to plan, plant, and harvest with confidence.”
Higher Yields, Higher Incomes
The impact of irrigation farming on Eric’s productivity has been remarkable. Compared to his early years under rain-fed farming, his yields have increased significantly. With consistent water supply and improved farming practices, his income has grown to over KES 1 million annually.
This growth has not only strengthened his farm as a business but has also transformed his life and that of his family.
Farming That Changes Lives
Through irrigation-supported farming, Eric has achieved milestones that once felt out of reach. He has purchased his own car, built a permanent house, and ensured quality education for his children, one currently in high school and the other attending a private primary school.
Beyond supporting his family, Eric has also invested in himself. He successfully completed his education and earned a diploma from a recognized university, something he proudly attributes to the stability farming has brought into his life.
The Role of NAVCDP Support
Eric credits much of his success to the guidance and capacity building support provided through NAVCDP. From agronomic training to advisory services, the project has equipped him with the knowledge and skills needed to farm smarter and more sustainably.
“NAVCDP has provided excellent farming guidance,” Eric says. “Their training and support have been instrumental in my success. Without them, I would not have achieved what I have today.”
A Model for Sustainable Agriculture
Eric Kairo’s journey demonstrates the power of irrigation, modern farming practices, and targeted support in transforming smallholder agriculture. His story is a testament to how investments in water access, farmer training, and climate smart agriculture can unlock productivity, resilience, and prosperity for farming households across Kenya.
As NAVCDP continues to strengthen value chains and empower farmers, stories like Eric’s highlight what is possible when farmers are given the right tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive.