Makongi Farm
Makongi Farm is a large-scale agricultural enterprise located in Eldoret County, Kenya. The farm lies in a fertile valley between the Cherangany Hills and Mount Elgon. Rich soils and high rainfall create ideal conditions for diverse farming activities. The farm has a long history dating back to 1912. It later came under local family ownership in the early 1970s, where it continues to operate today.
The farm is well known for its strong livestock breeding and dairy operations. It maintains a herd of approximately 500 cattle, including pedigree Ayrshire, Friesian, and indigenous Boran breeds. Over the years, Makongi Farm pioneered systematic breeding and detailed record keeping. As a result, it became a foundation herd for Ayrshire cattle in Kenya and Eastern Africa. The farm supplies high-quality breeding stock to artificial insemination programmes in Kenya and Tanzania.
In addition, Makongi Farm operates advanced reproductive technology facilities. These include in-vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer services that support rapid genetic improvement. This approach increases the number of high-quality dairy animals and strengthens national livestock productivity.
Makongi Farm also focuses on crop seed production and research. It develops and markets more than 60 certified seed varieties. These include maize, wheat, sunflower, finger millet, legumes, and horticultural seeds. These products support farmers across Kenya and the wider East African region.
Furthermore, the farm places strong emphasis on environmental conservation. It protects several hundred acres of natural forest along river lines and manages a large eucalyptus plantation. Each year, the farm plants thousands of trees from its own nursery.
Beyond agriculture, Makongi Farm supports community development through education. It hosts primary and secondary schools that serve farm workers and neighbouring communities.
Overall, Makongi Farm combines heritage, innovation, and sustainability to support agricultural growth and rural development in Kenya.