Heifer International

Heifer International (HI) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to ending hunger and poverty through sustainable agriculture and community development. Established in 1944, Heifer has operated in Kenya since 1981, initially supporting women’s dairy groups. Today, it works with smallholder farmers across multiple value chains, including dairy, poultry, beef, and horticulture, aiming to improve incomes, food security, and livelihoods.

In Kenya, Heifer implements the Practice for Change (P4C) program, which targets over 600,000 farming households in 26 counties. This initiative strengthens value chains, increases productivity, and connects farmers to markets. Moreover, it emphasizes gender inclusion, youth engagement, and climate-resilient practices, ensuring that benefits reach the most vulnerable communities.

Heifer International has supported several notable projects in Kenya. The Hatching Hope Kenya initiative helps thousands of poultry-farming households access improved breeds, training, and markets. The Kenya Livestock Marketing and Resilience Project (KLMP) strengthens production and marketing systems for poultry and red-meat producers. Additionally, Heifer works with farmer-owned dairy cooperatives to improve milk quality, management practices, and profitability. Through these projects, farmers gain better access to inputs, adopt modern farming techniques, and expand their business opportunities.

Applications to participate in Heifer programs are usually managed through partnerships with local cooperatives and community groups. Farmers join training sessions, receive technical guidance, and access markets for their products.

As a result, Heifer International continues to transform subsistence farms into sustainable agribusinesses. By combining funding, training, and market linkages, it supports smallholders to increase income, enhance food security, and contribute to inclusive agricultural growth across Kenya.