Farm Input Promotions Africa Ltd (FIPS Africa)

Farm Input Promotions Africa Ltd (FIPS Africa) is a Kenya-based nonprofit founded in 2003 to improve food security and resilience among smallholder farming households across Sub-Saharan Africa. The organization increases equitable access to information, quality inputs, advisory services, and markets. As a result, farmers adopt practical options that raise yields, diversify production, and reduce post-harvest losses.

At the core of its model is the Village-Based Advisor (VBA) approach. FIPS has trained and supports more than 3,300 self-employed VBAs in Kenya and thousands more across Africa. These advisors provide extension services, sell affordable trial packs of seed and inputs, and guide farmers on crop and livestock management. In addition, VBAs work closely with agro-dealers, research institutions, county governments, and private companies to strengthen last-mile delivery systems.

FIPS also invests in research and development. It tests low-cost, farmer-friendly technologies, promotes soil health, and supports farmer research networks built on co-creation and shared learning. Furthermore, the organization advocates for policy improvements, including support for informal seed systems that expand farmer access to clean planting material.

Youth enterprise development is another priority. Since 2017, FIPS has supported over 185,000 youth-led agribusinesses in areas such as poultry, vegetables, and fodder production. These enterprises require limited land and offer quick returns.

Through its scalable extension structure, FIPS reaches hundreds of thousands of farming households. Its inclusive, adaptive, and innovation-driven approach continues to strengthen smallholder livelihoods and build resilient agricultural systems across Africa.