Safaricom hosted an interactive forum in Eldoret where farmers were encouraged to join the Digital Farm Soko App. The app is more than just a record-keeping tool — it empowers farmers to:
- Track farming activities and expenses
- Store data securely for up to 5 years
- Compare results with other farmers locally and globally
- Receive updates on agricultural trends
According to Brendah Cheng’es, Head of Corporate at Safaricom, the goal is to ensure farmers treat their work like any other business. She emphasized the need for financial literacy so farmers can understand whether they’re making profits or losses.
“You can’t improve what you don’t measure,” Cheng’es noted. “Data helps farmers make better decisions.”
Farmers Share Real Stories from the Ground
Young Farmers Are Stepping Up
Peter Chumba, a youthful farmer from nearby Nandi County, encouraged fellow youth to embrace agriculture instead of waiting for white-collar jobs.
“I’m farming maize, beans, and coffee. Farming is not just for the old — it pays if you do it right,” said Chumba.
He urged young people to avoid maandamano (protests) and instead ask their parents for a small piece of land to start farming.
Smart Farming in Action
Reuben Sang, a part-time farmer from Kesses, shared his challenges in managing livestock while also working a day job. His solution?
- Install CCTV cameras on the farm
- Monitor feeding and animal health remotely
- Use technology for peace of mind
“I wake up at 4:50 a.m., and by 8:30 a.m., I’m off to work. Planning and tech make it all possible.”
Safaricom Celebrates 18 Years with Local Farmers
As part of its 18th-anniversary celebrations, Safaricom has been touring counties including Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Elgeyo Marakwet, and West Pokot. The focus? Listening to farmers and showing them how tools like the Digital Farm Soko App can simplify their operations.
Ready to Go Digital? Here’s What You Can Do
If you’re farming in or around Eldoret, here’s how to get started:
- Download the Digital Farm Soko App from the Google Play Store.
- Register your farm and input your data.
- Use the insights to improve productivity and connect with other farmers.
- Attend Safaricom events near you for support and updates.
Conclusion
The Digital Farm Soko App is more than just technology — it’s a lifeline for farmers looking to modernize, improve yields, and connect beyond borders. If you’re farming near Eldoret, it’s time to take your agribusiness to the next level.
