MMUST Benchmarks Leading Agricultural Institutions to Revamp University Farm
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) is undertaking a significant transformation of its university farm operations, informed by a comprehensive benchmarking exercise with leading agricultural institutions in Kenya, including Egerton University, Kaimosi Friends University, University of Eastern Africa Baraton, and the Dairy Training Institute in Naivasha.
The Dean School of Agriculture and Veterinary Technology, Prof. Vitalis Ojemah, making a point during a one day workshop in Kisumu
This initiative aims to implement best practices in agricultural training, farm commercialization, student engagement, and sustainable farm management to address current challenges faced by the MMUST farm, such as procurement delays, budget allocation issues, governance gaps, and labor shortages. Despite being equipped with agricultural experts and innovative projects like poultry feed production, biogas, composting, and fruit-tree nurseries, MMUST struggles with sustainability due to inadequate management structures.
The Benchmarking committee during the visit at the Dairy Training Institute plant in Naivasha
The benchmarking committee noted that successful institutions had adopted commercially-driven operational models. At Egerton University, for example, the farm functions as a commercial entity while providing academic experience, with students actively engaged in farm operations, and profits reinvested to enhance farming practices. Similarly, the University of Eastern Africa Baraton manages academic and commercial activities separately, generating approximately KSh6 million monthly from diverse ventures, including dairy farming and bakeries. The Dairy Training Institute showcased a practical education model with students spending about 70% of their training on hands-on activities, also offering specialized certifications in subjects like artificial insemination.
The DVC Administration and Finance, Prof. John Kuria Thuo with the benchmarking committee during the visit at the Baraton University in Nandi County
Private enterprises like Home Bright Farm illustrate the profitability of intensive dairy farming, with reported earnings exceeding KSh1 million weekly from breeding animal sales. The benchmarking team identified several best practices across the institutions, including self-produced animal feeds to reduce costs, value addition via dairy processing, utilization of biogas and solar energy, and the creation of emergency funds for farm operations
The benchmarking committee during the visit at the Home Bright Farm in Kiambu County
In light of these observations, MMUST has proposed various reforms, such as the creation of student-led farm enterprises, strengthening industry partnerships for professional certifications, and investing in modern dairy facilities. Moreover, the university aims to introduce competency-based assessments that focus on demonstrating technical skills instead of traditional attendance and report-based evaluations. The recommendations culminate in the conclusion that effective agricultural education necessitates a synergy of commercial exposure, innovation, research, and practical learning. By adopting the benchmarked practices, MMUST seeks to cultivate graduates who are innovative, practical, and well-prepared for the dynamic agricultural landscape.
The benchmarking committee during the visit at the Dairy Training Institute in Naivasha
The benchmarking exercise culminated in a one-day workshop held on 13th May 2026 at Kisumu Hotel, led by the Dean of the School of Agriculture and Veterinary Technology, Prof. Vitalis Ogemah. During the workshop, participants held extensive deliberations on strategies for improving productivity, sustainability, and management efficiency at the MMUST farm.
The benchmarking activities were coordinated in conjunction with the University Income Generating Unit led by Dr. Mogere Machuki, whose office played a key role in facilitating the exercise and supporting discussions aimed at strengthening the commercial viability and operational efficiency of the MMUST farm.
By Shiundu Masafu
