From the Margins to the Main Field: The Quiet Rise of Differently Abled Farmers in Kenya’s Potato Sector

In the lush valleys of Nyandarua, where the soil is rich and the air is cool, something extraordinary is sprouting — a quiet revolution in the potato fields. But this isn’t just about farming. It’s about dignity, visibility and rewriting the narrative of what it means to be “abled.”

In a world where ability is too often defined by narrow physical standards, a group of determined, differently abled farmers is proving that the true strength of a farmer lies not in limbs, but in the spirit.

Not just planting tuber seeds, but seeds of inclusion

Planting seeds goes beyond the soil — it’s about planting hope, inclusion and opportunity. Recently, during a training and demonstration on Irish potato farming with this remarkable group, what unfolded was nothing short of inspirational.

As spades broke the earth and eyes lit up with curiosity, the field transformed into a classroom of inclusion. For many of the participants, this was the first time someone had truly believed in their ability to farm — to not only grow crops, but to grow confidence, purpose and pride.

George Githiri, one of the participants, put it best:
“People judge our inability without ever giving us an opportunity. They see our wheelchairs, our walking sticks, and stop there. But none of them sees how we feed our families, how we push ourselves every day to be part of this world, this economy, this food system.”

His words struck a chord. How many talented farmers have been sidelined, not because they lack potential, but because they were never given the platform to show it?

Mr. David, another participant, spoke with the quiet power of a man who has long defied expectations.
“Yes, I know I am abled differently. But that does not mean I cannot plant. I always prepare my land — not just for potatoes, but for other crops too. This is my life.”
He smiled as he gently packed soil over a row of seed tubers — a simple act, yet layered with meaning. With every handful, he buried the stigma and raised a new standard for what is possible.

Joseph, a hands-on farmer with sharp insight, was thrilled to learn about the potato value chain — from tissue culture labs to certified seed classes and the science behind sizing.
“These are things we never get to learn,” he said.
“People assume we can’t farm. But I do everything at my farm — I milk cows, grade my potatoes, and now I want to learn about value addition. I want to grow beyond the soil.”

Joyce’s vision: From exclusion to empowerment

One of the strongest voices from the field was Joyce, the chairlady and founder of VMG (Vulnerable and Marginalized Group). Formed in 2024, VMG now has 25 members — 12 of whom are persons abled differently and the rest are caregivers or parents of disabled children.

Joyce started the group after experiencing stigma and unemployment herself.
“The group was born out of a need to empower differently abled persons through agriculture,” she shared. “Farming has given me a sense of purpose and confidence. I no longer wait for handouts. I now train others.”

Despite being once told she couldn’t join a potato group because “this work is for able-bodied men,” Joyce pushed forward. Today, she grows potatoes and cabbages, engages in poultry farming, and handles all tasks — from planting and weeding to sorting and marketing.

She’s also clear-eyed about the challenges:
“Most trainings are not accessible. Transport is hard. Banks don’t take us seriously when we ask for farm loans. Even getting quality seeds is a struggle.”

Yet, during this inclusive training session — tailored for farmers abled differently — she felt something shift:
“It was the first time a training was designed with us in mind. The trainers were patient and inclusive. We all learned in our own way.”

Joyce now dreams of leading a value addition project:
“I want to start a potato crisps and flour unit, run by persons with disabilities. It will provide jobs and help us earn more from our produce.”

Her message is as powerful as her work:
“Disability is not inability. We have the skills and the will to farm. We just need access — to tools, training, and land. We don’t want sympathy. We want opportunity.”

Inclusion is the seed of real change

This journey is powered by Nakuru Tubers and Wakulima Help Desk, with crucial support from the Mastercard Foundation via RUFORUM and AFAAS, alongside KeFAAS Kenya and COELIB of Egerton University. It’s not charity. It’s equity — and a commitment to recognize and uplift the full spectrum of farming potential in Kenya.

Too long has the potato sector overlooked talents like George, David, Joseph, and Joyce. When differently abled farmers are supported, they don’t just participate — they lead, innovate, and inspire.

To policymakers and stakeholders: without inclusion, agricultural development remains incomplete. Inclusion is not an afterthought — it’s the foundation.

As Joyce reminds us:
“Food is for everyone, so farming should include everyone.”

And as George says,
“All we need is an opportunity.”

When given, they grow — beautifully.