MMUST Set to Partner with University of Eldoret in Implementation of Agri-Food TAGDEV 2.0 Project
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) is set to collaborate with the University of Eldoret (UoE) in the implementation of the Agri-Food Systems Community Action Research and Entrepreneurship Project under the TAGDev 2.0 initiative. This partnership was confirmed during a courtesy visit by a delegation from UoE on 23rd April 2025. The visiting delegation, led by Prof. Julius Ochuodho, was received by MMUST’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo. The meeting brought together top researchers from both institutions, who deliberated on MMUST’s expected deliverables and reviewed the contract that will guide the partnership throughout the project lifecycle. The Agri-Food TAGDev 2.0 Project is led by the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) and funded by the Mastercard Foundation. It is intended to advance community-based research and entrepreneurial solutions within the agri-food system, particularly, the dairy value chain.
MMUST VC, Prof. Solomon Shibairo in a round table meeting with the participants.
Speaking during the courtesy call, Prof. Solomon Shibairo welcomed the UoE team and lauded the collaboration as timely and strategic for strengthening food systems and youth employment in Kenya. “This program is truly commendable because of its approach of bringing institutions with technical expertise directly to farmers. I believe that it will go a long way in fostering continuous engagement with communities, ensuring that our research translates into real solutions and transformation in the agricultural sector as well as the livelihoods of our youth,” said Prof. Shibairo.
The Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor- Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Peter Bukhala reaffirmed MMUST’s readiness to support the project, highlighting the University’s robust research structures and financial management systems. “We have a vibrant Division of Research, and well-established systems that will efficiently manage any financial resources channelled through this partnership,” he stated.
The Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Peter Bukhala during the meeting.
Echoing these sentiments, the Dean School of Agriculture, Veterinary Sciences and Technology (SAVET), Prof. Vitalis Ogemah appreciated the confidence shown in MMUST by UoE. “Thank you for the opportunity. Clearly, MMUST was considered a key stakeholder in this initiative. We are committed to delivering on the project’s goals,” said Prof. Ogemah.
The Dean School of Agriculture, Veterinary Sciences and Technology (SAVET), Prof. Vitalis Ogemah keenly following the discussions.
The Agri-Food Systems Community Action Research and Entrepreneurship Project will be implemented across the North Rift and Lake Region Economic Bloc, focusing on the dairy value chain. Its work packages include co-creative problem-solving along the dairy value chain; research for development and diversification in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs); skilling and retooling for work and wealth creation; incubation and acceleration of dairy-related enterprises for job creation; and Greening landscapes to enhance ecosystem services in dairy production.
Prof. Julius Ochuodho share a moment with the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha. Looking on is the DVC PRI, Prof. Peter Bukhala.
In addition to these, the key deliverables of the project will involve training smallholder farmers and out-of-school youth, creating job opportunities, establishing start-ups and enterprises, and promoting environmental sustainability through tree planting initiatives.
MMUST Project lead, Prof. Francis Muyekho during the meeting.
Other notable personalities from the UoE included Dr. Javan Were, and Dr. George Ariya. MMUST team was also represented by Prof. Francis Muyekho, Dr. Collins Matemba, Dr. Edward Mugalavai, and faculty members from the School of Agriculture Veterinary Sciences and Technology.
It is worth noting that once the agreement is finalized, MMUST will officially begin working alongside UoE on the ten-year project.
By Caren Nekesa
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
