In the waning days of 2022, a conversation among a few passionate individuals about transforming the lives of smallholder farmers in lower eastern Kenya blossomed into the formidable force known today as Itanya Africa Group. The journey from an informal dialogue to the establishment of a non-profit organization in February 2023 has been nothing short of remarkable.
Our inception marked the commencement of a whirlwind year filled with purpose-driven actions. We swiftly developed a website, crafted a comprehensive profile, and laid the foundation of our Theory of Change. Embarking on an initial baseline research study in Matuu revealed fascinating phenomena, setting the stage for our transformative endeavours.
The journey unfolded with proposal writing – a delicate balance of persistence and adaptability. The proposal process, akin to a gamble, taught us valuable lessons about resilience and the art of pivoting ideas. Alongside these experiences, our abstract found a home at the prestigious CGIAR Conference in Delhi, India. Presenting our work on “The Role of Gender in shaping adaptive and transformative capacities for building resilience” among renowned researchers in October 2023 was an honour that fueled our commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Recognition continued as we secured a spot in the RAIN Challenge by the Global Resilience Partnership and Munich Re Foundation, a testament to the faith in our workplan and vision. A second baseline research study in Wamunyu showcased the enthusiasm of farmers, reinforcing our mission to dignify their livelihoods.
Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide us: to dignify the livelihoods of farmers, impacting the lives of 100,000 smallholder farmers in the next 5 years. We are committed to capacity building, resilient instruments, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), and applying behavioral science to empower women and youth in agriculture.
Operating from Nairobi, our interventions span social capital, water infrastructure, psycho-social support, good agricultural practices, yield safeguarding, and regenerative agriculture. Our evidence-based approach integrates these pillars, uplifts farmers’ lives, and positively shapes the future.
In the digital realm, our organic growth saw us gain 132 followers on LinkedIn, 101 on Instagram, and 36 on Twitter. As we embark on 2024, our first project in Wamunyu promises to delve into capacity building, resilient instruments, and impactful change for smallholder farmers. A more aggressive approach to fundraising, enhanced networking, and strategic visibility are on the horizon as we seek to be a household name synonymous with real impact.
To partners, stakeholders, and supporters, we extend an invitation to join us in the journey ahead. Itanya Africa Group is poised for an incredible year, fueled by our unwavering commitment to creating a lasting legacy that transcends generations. Let’s build resilience, foster change, and make a lasting impact together in 2024.
Reach out to us and become part of our story.
From the Itanya Africa Group Team.