In Kenya, agriculture and conservation can often clash. Farmers and livestock owners compete with wildlife for water access and grazing land, and human/wildlife conflict is too often the end result. In a bid to support local farmers, and raise awareness about wildlife conservation, Ol Pejeta held a Farmer's Field Day on the 14th September 2016.

The event brought together farmers from several local communities to exchange ideas, learn about new farming practices and agricultural trends, and discover more about Ol Pejeta's conservation and community work.

Farmers learning about improved potato breeds.

This initiative received the full support of Laikipia County Government, and National Government. It was attended by several county officials, including the Assistant County Commissioner of Laikipia, several area chiefs, and representatives from the Kenyan Ministry of Agriculture.

Agricultural companies, such as Osho and Syngenta, spoke with the farmers about new seed varieties, chemicals, and new technologies that maximise yields. Financial institutions Equity Bank and Biashara Sacco were also on hand to teach farmers about how to access capital for farming, and saving and investment opportunities.

“You have learnt a lot today, but I implore you to implement all that you have learnt today. Knowledge is power, and it has the potential to transform your lives and communities if applied correctly” said Ol Pejeta's Community Programs Manager, Moses Muthoki, in a speech he made to a full-bellied audience after the afternoon meal.