Field Tours for the IFAJ World Congress of Agricultural Journalists 2025

Date: October 17/18, 2025

Tour 1: Thika Town and Its Environs

Kenchic

This tour offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Kenchic, one of Kenya’s premier poultry producers. Delegates will explore the intricate processes behind breeding high-quality broiler chickens, maintaining exemplary standards of animal husbandry, and employing cutting-edge poultry processing technologies. The visit highlights Kenchic’s commitment to food safety, sustainability, and innovation in the poultry industry, showcasing their role in shaping Kenya’s agricultural sector. Delegates will gain valuable insights into how science and technology are transforming poultry production to meet the growing demand for high-quality, safe poultry products in local and international markets. Witness one of Kenya’s biggest investment in the poultry sector; from production to plate.

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KALRO Coffee Research Institute

Explore advancements in Kenya’s coffee industry at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) Coffee Research Institute in Ruiru, Kiambu County. This institute specializes in developing high-quality, highly resilient-disease-resistant coffee varieties, such as Ruiru 11 and Batian, that thrive across Kenya’s diverse climatic conditions. Delegates will witness groundbreaking research in coffee breeding, soil management, pest and disease control, and value addition. Highly seasons experts will be available to demonstrate sustainable farming practices and showcase how these innovations are ensuring Kenya’s global leadership in premium coffee production. The tour provides a comprehensive understanding of the coffee value chain, from farm to cup.

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Kakuzi Plc

Discover the journey of Kenya’s world-famous avocados and nuts that find market across the globe. Learn about various varieties of avocados and nuts and their dynamics. Witness value addition at its best and how this resonates with social-environmental responsibility at Kakuzi Plc. Here, delegates will tour expansive orchards, observe harvesting and processing techniques, and learn about the company’s dedication to sustainability and environmental conservation. Kakuzi’s commitment to empowering local communities and producing premium avocados for international markets makes it a model for sustainable agribusiness. This visit offers an in-depth look at how Kakuzi balances profitability with social and environmental responsibility.

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Tour 2: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and Its Environs

JKUAT Hericulture Farm

This tour offers a unique opportunity to understand the breeding, care, and harvesting of snails, as well as their economic and environmental benefits. Delegates will have a unique time of discovery at the emerging world of snail farming at JKUAT’s heliculture demonstration farm. Here, you will learn about the lucrative market for snail products, including their use as a delicacy and in cosmetics. Participants will witness the sustainable and profitable aspects of heliculture and even enjoy a taste of snail-based culinary delights.

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Harcourt Farm Limited

Experience the innovative world of black soldier fly (BSF) production and observe how BSF larvae is transforming the production of animal feed by providing a sustainable and affordable protein-rich alternative to traditional feeds. This eco-friendly process enhances sustainable management of organic waste through recycling while creating high-quality livestock feed, thus contributing to environmental conservation. The visit showcases the entrepreneurial spirit, driving sustainable agriculture and highlights the immense potential of BSF farming in improving feed quality and reducing production costs.

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International Center of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe)

Based at Kasarani, outskirts on Nairobi CBD, icipe is a leading institution dedicated to the study of insects and their applications in agriculture and health. Delegates will learn about innovative solutions such as bio-pesticides and insect-based proteins, which address global challenges like food and nutrition security, pest management, and sustainable farming. The tour offers a fascinating glimpse into how insect research is transforming industries and promoting environmental sustainability.

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Tour 3: Kajiado Town and Its Environs

PJ Dave

Kenya’s reputation for world-class floriculture industry is exemplified by PJ Dave Flower Farm in Kisaju. Learn how this farm has expanded from just two hectares to close to 100 – leveraging on growing market demand, while creating employment opportunities. Delegates will explore the farm’s expansive rose fields and learn about advanced irrigation systems like reverse osmosis, which enable rose cultivation in semi-arid conditions. The farm employs Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to maintain environmental sustainability while producing 500,000 stems daily across 50 rose varieties. This visit will offer insights into how innovative practices ensure the quality, longevity, and global competitiveness of Kenya’s roses.

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Vertical Lake

Located in Rongai, Kajiado County, Vertical Lake is a revolutionary aquaculture project utilizing vertical space to create a freshwater lake within a semi-arid region. Delegates will witness how this innovative system maximizes water efficiency and land use, enabling high-yield fish farming in water-scarce areas. The tour highlights how Vertical Lake is setting a new standard for sustainable food production in harsh climatic conditions.

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Fred’s Ranch

Owned by veteran journalist Fred Obach Machoka, the Fred’s Ranch offers a blend of rural charm and modern farming. Renowned for its farm-to-table dining experience, the ranch showcases sustainable organic farming and livestock rearing practices. Delegates will enjoy guided tours of the farm, interact with livestock, and learn about Kenya’s agricultural heritage. The serene environment and commitment to sustainability make Fred’s Ranch a must-visit destination for agricultural enthusiasts.

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Tour 4: Naivasha and Its Environs

Seed Savers Network

At the Seed Savers Network, delegates will discover how local communities are preserving indigenous seeds for agro-biodiversity, food sovereignty and food security. The tour includes a visit to a local seed bank and training sessions on seed-saving techniques that enhance seed access, empower farmers and strengthen resilience to climate change. This visit underscores the critical role of blending science with traditional knowledge towards sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation.

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Nai’posha Dairy Farm

Nai’posha Dairy Farm exemplifies resilience and innovation in dairy farming. Delegates will observe the integration of high-quality dairy production with Dorper sheep breeding for meat and milk. The farm’s practice of growing its own fodder reduces reliance on commercial feeds, promoting sustainability and cost efficiency. This tour offers valuable insights into modern dairy farming practices tailored to overcome climate and economic challenges.

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Delamere

Established back in colonial days, Delamere is a hallmark of large-scale, agriculture in Kenya, which has stood the test of time. Delegates will tour its dairy and crop farming operations, which blend traditional techniques with modern innovations. Known for producing premium dairy products like yoghurt and cheese, Delamere demonstrates how sustainability and efficiency can coexist in large-scale farming. The visit provides a comprehensive look at the future of agribusiness in Kenya.

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Tour 5: Naivasha Town and Its Environs

KALRO Dairy Research Institute Naivasha

The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) Dairy Research Institute is dedicated to developing and sharing sustainable innovations and cost-effective technologies aimed at boosting productivity, ensuring food security, and improving livelihoods. Here, delegates will explore innovative solutions in animal health, genetics, and climate-smart farming. This tour will provide a unique opportunity to see how scientific research supports food security and livelihoods in Kenya.

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Tour 6: Machakos Route

ILRI Kapiti

Located on 32,000 acres of semi-arid rangeland, ILRI Kapiti is a hub for cutting-edge agricultural research. Delegates will witness advancements in livestock productivity, health, and sustainability, including climate-smart practices and genetic innovations. The tour highlights how ILRI’s research is transforming the livestock industry and addressing the challenges of food security and climate change. This visit is an excellent opportunity to understand the critical role of science in improving agriculture for smallholder farmers and large-scale producers alike.

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