Region: East Africa | Kenya | Nyeri & Isiolo Counties

Context:

In 2023, rains failed in Kenya's Mt Kenya region. For farmers dependent on rainfed agriculture, this threatened total crop loss. The difference between varieties became stark.

Solution:

In Endarasha, Nyeri County, one farmer planted both Chui F1 and competitor variety Shani. When the drought hit, the results were clear.

The Outcome:

  • Chui F1: 7 tons harvested
  • Shani: 4 tons harvested

Despite the crop failure conditions, Chui F1 delivered 75% more yield. The farmer immediately reordered 200,000 Chui seeds.

Why It Matters:

Drought is increasingly common across Africa. Varieties that perform under stress don't just protect yields - they protect livelihoods. These aren't laboratory results. These are field outcomes in the most challenging conditions farmers face.

Mr. Macharia's Story:

Also in Endarasha, Mr. Macharia planted 100,000 seeds of Malbec F1. His harvest: 8 tons. With favorable prices, he was able to buy a car immediately after selling. He joked that we should write "Malbec F1" on the back.

In Isiolo:

While neighboring farmers complained about poor Red Coach performance, one farmer in Maili Saba area planted 4kg of seed and harvested 51 tons. Other farmers visited to learn his "secret" - simply the right variety, properly managed.