KALRO

𝐊𝐀𝐋𝐑𝐎 𝐓𝐞𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞 -𝐊𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐚 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰! You are warmly invited to the KALRO Tea Research Centre in Kangaita for the KALRO Open Week 2026, taking place on 31st March and 1st April 2026. Come and experience the latest innovations and cutting-edge technologies in tea farming. Discover a wide range of tea varieties and learn practical ways to enhance productivity and improve the quality of your yield. This is a great opportunity to engage with experts, gain hands-on knowledge, and take your farming to the next level. Don’t miss out, join us and transform your tea farming journey. #kalroopenweek2026

𝐊𝐀𝐋𝐑𝐎 𝐓𝐞𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞 -𝐊𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐚 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰! You are warmly invited to the KALRO Tea Research Centre in Kangaita for the KALRO Open Week 2026, taking place on 31st March and 1st April 2026. Come and experience the latest innovations and cutting-edge technologies in tea farming. Discover a wide range of tea varieties and learn practical ways to enhance productivity and improve the quality of your yield. This is a great opportunity to engage with experts, gain hands-on knowledge, and take your farming to the next level. Don’t miss out, join us and transform your tea farming journey.

The KALRO Muguga Joint Open Week bringing together the Veterinary Services Research Institute (VSRI), the Genetic Resources Research Institute (GeRRI), the Biotechnology Research Institute (BioRI), and the Food Crops Research Centre (FCRC) has successfully come to a close. The event attracted a diverse audience, from young learners to experienced farmers and agripreneurs, all united by a shared interest in agricultural innovation and the future of farming in Kenya. Throughout the week, participants were treated to a rich showcase of cutting-edge technologies, research breakthroughs, and practical solutions shaping the agricultural sector. A major highlight was the work of the Genetic Resources Research Institute (GeRRI), which showcased its extensive collection of conserved traditional crop varieties and improved lines—critical in safeguarding national food security. Visitors explored both demonstration fields and GeRRI’s digital platform, which allows users to conveniently access, request, and track genetic resources online. KALRO’s broader ICT innovations also stood out, with tools such as the KALRO Selector empowering farmers to make smarter, climate-resilient decisions. The Plant Genetic Resources Platform further demonstrated how digital solutions are enhancing access to Kenya’s rich agricultural biodiversity. Together, these innovations underscored a future of agriculture that is digital, data-driven, and firmly rooted in sustainability. The Veterinary Services Research Institute (VSRI) complemented jthe experience with engaging exhibitions, including a mobile animal health clinic and improved livestock breeds such as Dorper sheep and Boran cattle. The event also spotlighted underutilized fruits like gooseberries, mulberries, and loquats, alongside their value-added products, highlighting new opportunities for nutrition and agribusiness. We extend our sincere gratitude to all participants, partners, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of this impactful and insightful week. Your engagement, curiosity, and commitment made the Open Week both memorable and meaningful. Thank you for being part of this journey.

Dr Susan Otieno, Centre Director at the KALRO HRI -National Potato Research Centre Tigoni hosted a high-level delegation from Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) led by Dr. Davis Nguthi, Country Director of AGRA Kenya, alongside David Ojigo, Director of Research and Innovation at the Ministry of Agriculture. The delegation, which included Permanent Secretaries from various African countries, visited KALRO Tigoni to strengthen collaboration on building a more efficient and sustainable potato seed system across the continent, with a focus on innovative approaches such as apical cuttings technology for rapid seed multiplication. Through the AGRA-Kenya Sustainable Potato Initiative (KSPI), a consortium bringing together KALRO, Egerton University, and National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK), partners are working to enhance farmers’ access to high-quality seed of appropriate potato varieties. The initiative aims to increase the production of certified seed potato and high-quality planting materials by 40% over the next three years using sustainable approaches.

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Today, the Director General of KALRO, Dr. Patrick Ketiem, joined other leaders including Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh, Principal Secretary for the National Treasury Dr. Chris Kiptoo, and Eng. John Tanui, Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy and Elgeyo Marakwet Governor H.E. Wisley Kipyegon Rotich on a farmer empowerment and engagement tour in Kocholwo and Kapkayo markets in Elgeyo Marakwet County. During the visits, the leaders engaged with farmers and distributed high-value seedlings aimed at boosting agricultural productivity in the region. The distribution included 50,000 coffee seedlings, 40,000 avocado seedlings, 20,000 mango seedlings, and 10,000 macadamia seedlings. In Kapkayo -Keiyo South, the team also flagged off the distribution of fruit seedlings from KVDA and Nyota bean seeds from KALRO. Our teams from KALRO ABIRI, Kibos and Katumani showcased KALRO technologies and empowered farmers on best agricultural practices. These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance agricultural productivity and improve farmers’ livelihoods within Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo Counties.

The KALRO Horticulture Research Centre, Tigoni Mkulima Open Week was a resounding success, bringing together farmers, partners, and stakeholders in a shared commitment to advancing agricultural innovation. The event was graced by the Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Kiambu County, Hon. Harrison Matevwa, as the Chief Guest, alongside the area administration. It was hosted by Dr. Susan Otieno, Centre Director, KALRO Horticulture Research Centre. Farmers had the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge on improved potato farming technologies, explore diverse potato varieties, and engage with experts on best practices aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability. The event also attracted the participation of key stakeholders, including Boma Yangu Initiative, Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service, National Potato Council of Kenya, and many others whose contributions played a significant role in its success. The KALRO Tigoni Open Week underscored the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in transforming the agricultural sector. #kalroopenweek2026

Today, KALRO Beef Research Institute – Lanet conducted a tree-planting exercise to promote environmental conservation and contribute to national restoration efforts. The activity was led by the Deputy Institute Director, Mr. Patrick Mwangi, on behalf of the Institute Director, Dr. Tura Isako. In his remarks, Mr. Mwangi urged staff to embrace their role as environmental stewards beyond simply planting trees. He emphasized the importance of ongoing care, protection, and incorporating tree growing into daily practices, noting that meaningful and lasting impact depends on collective responsibility and sustained commitment. He further highlighted the significance of such initiatives in nurturing a culture of sustainability, encouraging participants to rally behind the “Jaza Miti Initiative.” By increasing tree cover, the exercise not only supports climate change mitigation efforts but also enhances the institute’s research environment, particularly in advancing sustainable industrial crop production. #treeplanting #15billiontrees

Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), in collaboration with the Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA) and CIHEAM-BARI under the Climate Smart WATer Management and Sustainable DEVelopment for Food and Agriculture in East Africa (WATDEV) Project, conducted a Best Management Practices (BMPs) training and dissemination event at Zuri hotel in Hola, Tana River County. The event was attended by representatives from ASARECA, KALRO, National Irrigation Authority, Tana River County and farmers from Laza village. Speaking at the event, Mr. Moses Odeke, WATDEV Project Coordinator at ASARECA, highlighted three major manifestations of climate change: recurrent droughts and floods, soil degradation caused by flooding and water runoff, and declining water levels. He emphasized that these challenges raise critical questions on how to mitigate the impacts of climate change, how to restore soil fertility, and how to make efficient use of available resources. Mr. Odeke noted that the WATDEV project seeks to address these pressing issues through the promotion of Best Management Practices (BMPs). Dr. Michael Okoti from KALRO, emphasized on some of the issues causing soil degradation reiterating that soil testing is key in determining the right fertilizer and usage. The representatives came together to discuss agriculture BMPs and get more insights on the pros and cons of the practices. The training sessions encouraged meaningful dialogue and laid the foundation for adopting BMPs that promote sustainable agriculture in the region. The event also featured field excursions and discussions at the Laza minor irrigation scheme, where Dr. Okoti guided farmers on the interventions to improve soil quality in certain areas of the farm. By enhancing farmers’ skills, the WATDEV BMPs trainings have successfully triggered the adoption of BMPs in the region. KALRO and partners remain committed to empowering farmers with innovative technologies and sustainable practices that enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, and ensure food security across Kenya and the East Africa region. #ClimateSmartAgriculture #SustainableDevelopment #KALRO #ASARECA #CIHEAM-BARI #watdevproject

𝐊𝐀𝐋𝐑𝐎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 & 𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐓 𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐞, 𝐊𝐢𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐮 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲. KALRO, in partnership with the Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT, today launched the Pap Kadundo Integrated Community Seed Bank in Seme, Kisumu County. The facility will promote community-led conservation of diverse seed varieties, improving nutrition, incomes, and livelihoods while enhancing access to quality seeds and strengthening local value chains for crops such as cassava, potato, millet, sorghum, and beans. The initiative is supported by the B-REAL and Open-Source Seed Systems projects, with KALRO leading implementation alongside partners including Seed Savers Network. Through demonstration farms, seed bulking, participatory variety selection, and farmer training, the program is advancing climate-resilient agriculture and translating research into practical, community-driven solutions. The launch was officiated by KALRO Deputy Director General, Crops Dr Alice Murage, alongside Ms Judith Oluoch CECM Water, Environment and Climate Change Kisumu County, Managing Director Africa Dr Wanjiru Kamau Rutenberg and Dr Carlo Fadda Director Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture of Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT. The leaders emphasized the seed bank’s role in ensuring access to quality farmer managed seeds, supporting farmer innovation, and empowering communities especially women and youth through climate-smart agriculture. @BiovIntCIAT_esp @KisumuCountyKE @Seedsavers_KE

KALRO Industrial Crops Research Institute, Mtwapa, successfully hosted its Open Week on 26th–27th March 2026, bringing together researchers, farmers, policymakers, and private sector stakeholders to showcase cutting-edge innovations in industrial crops. The event highlighted KALRO’s pivotal role in advancing research-driven solutions that address emerging agricultural challenges, enhance productivity, and promote sustainable value chains. Participants engaged with a wide range of technologies and knowledge-sharing sessions focused on improving crop resilience, boosting farmer incomes, and unlocking new opportunities for agro-industrial growth, reinforcing KALRO Mtwapa’s position as a hub for transformative agricultural research. As part of the Open Week activities, a study tour of the KINGAKUU cassava site was conducted as a side event, offering stakeholders a closer look at ongoing efforts to develop virus-resistant cassava varieties. The visit focused on innovative cassava lines engineered to withstand major diseases such as Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) and Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), underscoring their potential to strengthen food security and farmer livelihoods. The session was officially opened by David Omusotsi Wamatsi, Chairman of the National Biosafety Authority, who emphasized Kenya’s robust biosafety frameworks that ensure all biotechnology crops undergo rigorous scientific evaluation before approval, affirming their safety for cultivation and consumption. #kalroopenweek2026

The KALRO Muguga Open Week is currently underway and progressing well as planned. The event was officially opened by the KALRO Deputy Director General – Livestock, Dr. Evans Ilatsia. All are welcome to attend, interact with KALRO scientists and farmers, and learn more about KALRO’s milestones and innovations in agriculture and livestock. Join us today and tomorrow — entry is FREE

KALRO Industrial Crops Research Centre – Mwea today joined other KALRO centres in the ongoing tree planting exercise aimed at promoting environmental conservation and supporting national restoration efforts. The activity was led by Centre Director, Dr. Ruth Musila, who called on staff to embrace their role as environmental stewards beyond the act of planting trees. She emphasized the need for continuous care, protection, and integration of tree growing into everyday practices, noting that sustainable impact is achieved through collective responsibility and long-term commitment. The exercise holds significant importance for KALRO Mwea, as it directly contributes to improved soil health, enhanced water conservation, and a more resilient agricultural ecosystem within the region. By increasing tree cover, the Centre not only supports climate change mitigation efforts but also strengthens its research environment, particularly in promoting sustainable industrial crop production. Additionally, the initiative reinforces KALRO’s leadership in climate-smart agriculture, demonstrating practical solutions that farmers and stakeholders can adopt to improve productivity while safeguarding the environment. #treeplanting