When we started Stawi, we set an ambitious goal: to fundamentally transform the economic reality of smallholder farmers.
This article breaks down how we are achieving these results and what it means for farming families.
The Income Transformation Model
Let’s look at the typical journey of a Stawi farmer:
Phase 1: Diversification
Farmers traditionally rely on unpredictable subsistence crops. Stawi introduces high-value cash crops (cashew) and beekeeping.
- Income Stability: Honey provides income between harvest seasons.
- Risk Reduction: Multiple revenue streams protect against single-crop failure.
Phase 2: Productivity
We provide training and quality inputs (seedlings/hives) that significantly boost yields compared to traditional methods.
- Better Inputs: High-yielding varieties.
- Better Practices: Modern farming techniques.
Phase 3: Market Access
Crucially, we guarantee purchase. Farmers don’t just grow more; they sell more, at transparent prices.
- Fair Pricing: Removing exploitative middlemen.
- Reliable Payments: Timely payments build trust and allow for planning.
Beyond Income: Quality of Life
Higher income enables transformative changes:
Education: Increased ability to pay school fees. Health: Better access to healthcare and nutrition. Housing: Investment in home improvements. Agency: Women farmers report increased financial independence.
The Ripple Effect
As farmer families prosper, they:
- Hire local labor
- Purchase from local shops
- Invest in their communities
Our model shows that when you empower a farmer, you empower an entire community.
Mary Kimathi
Stawi team member passionate about sustainable agriculture and farmer empowerment.