Bomet County Distributes Over 19,500 Avocado Seedlings to Boost Climate Resilience and Livelihoods

Bomet, Kenya – In a bold move aimed at combating climate change and promoting sustainable agriculture, Bomet County has launched the second phase of its fruit tree distribution initiative, targeting over 19,500 avocado seedlings to farmer groups across the region.

The program, spearheaded by the County Department of Environment and Climate Change, spans eleven wards in Sotik, Konoin, Bomet East, and Bomet Central sub-counties—areas that had missed out during the first phase of distribution last year.

Governor Prof. Hillary Barchok, who led the distribution exercise, urged farmers to embrace avocado farming as a climate-smart alternative to traditional crops. “This is more than just tree planting; it’s about empowering our communities with climate-resilient livelihoods and increasing household incomes,” said Prof. Barchok.

The initiative falls under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program—a joint partnership between the Government of Kenya and the World Bank. FLLoCA aims to support grassroots efforts in enhancing resilience to climate shocks by promoting locally tailored climate solutions.

In Bomet Central Sub-county: Sonokwek Setkobor group from Ndarawetta ward, with 180 members, received 5,400 seedlings. Chemogoi Farmers Group, comprising 172 members from Chesoen ward, got 5,160 seedlings. Koyumi Group, with 188 members from Silibwet Township ward, received 3,780 seedlings. Mokito Group in Singorwet ward received 3,780 seedlings.

In Sotik Sub-county: Chebirbelek Multi-Purpose Group in Kapletundo ward, with 240 members, received 4,800 seedlings.

In Konoin Sub-county: Pecaste Welfare Group in Mogogosiek ward (148 members) received 2,960 seedlings. Kertai Iria Maina Welfare Group (113 members) in Boito ward received 2,260 seedlings. Kimulot Socio-economic Elders Group (155 members) in Kimulot ward received 3,100 seedlings.

In Bomet East: Chepchabas Samaria Welfare Group (111 members) in Chepchabas ward received 2,220 seedlings. Kobsa Welfare Group (143 members) in Embomos ward received 2,860 seedlings.

The program aims not only to improve food security and household earnings but also to champion environmental sustainability through the promotion of climate-smart agriculture.

Governor Barchok reaffirmed the county’s commitment to expanding such initiatives, noting that agricultural diversification is key to reducing the region's vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change.

“This is a long-term investment in the well-being of our people and the health of our environment,” he said.