Marigat: Deep in the dry lands of the North Rift, a man is rewriting his heritage by reclaiming an ancestral land from big rocky boulders into an arable land capable of feeding his village. Wilson Mutai Cheruiyot of Tinomoi Sub Location in Marigat Sub County, Baringo, has worked hard under the scorching sun to turn around the arid nametag associated with his birthplace into an oasis of livelihood.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mutai’s story of transformation began in 1992, albeit through a misfortune. His family had abandoned the land in 1962, fleeing from a relentless drought, which rendered the rocky terrain unfit for farming. They resettled in Lari, Nakuru County, where Mutai ventured into retail business until tribal politics led to the destruction of his properties, forcing him to return to his roots and start anew.
Upon his return, Mutai discovered a small spring on the half-acre of arable land, sparking hope for the neglected property. He embarked on a mission to reclaim the land, manually digging out rocks and installing an intricate water supply network, all without professional assistance. His efforts have resulted in a flourishing 3-acre farm, producing vegetables and fruits that not only sustain his family but also serve the local community’s nutritional needs.
Mutai’s dedication enabled him to educate his six children, with the youngest set to join university. He has graciously donated part of his land with the water source to the community, urging local and national governments to invest in infrastructure that would promote irrigation farming and improve water access for domestic use.
When KNA visited Mutai’s farm, he recounted the physical challenges he overcame, attributing his youthful vigor to the daily labor he undertook. His farm now features a natural swamp with an improvised intake structure ensuring a consistent water supply. Mutai has planted over 1000 trees, supporting agroforestry and enhancing the area’s environment.
Mutai is an advocate for hands-on farming, encouraging the youth to create wealth through agriculture rather than depending solely on elusive white-collar jobs. His vision extends beyond personal success; he dreams of a prosperous community thriving in a self-sustaining agricultural economy.
Despite his achievements, Mutai faces ongoing challenges, such as leveling the land and protecting crops from livestock. He emphasizes the need for agricultural extension services to supplement his farming knowledge and calls for government support in establishing value addition factories to boost the local agricultural sector.
Mutai’s neighbor, Peter Ole Ngirnas, praises him as a community role model, inspiring others to adopt farming practices that enhance their livelihoods. Ole Ngirnas’s own farm transformation reflects the potential for community-wide success, provided there is continued support and investment in agricultural development.
