KOAN Celebrates the First Graduation of Kilimohai Organic Certified PGS Assessors and Trainers of Trainers

On 2nd August 2024, the Kenya Organic Agriculture Network proudly marked a major milestone in strengthening Kenya’s local organic movement through the successful graduation of the first cohort of Kilimohai Organic Certified Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Assessors and Trainers of Trainers (ToTs).

The graduation ceremony, held at Sportsview Hotel Kasarani, brought together National PGS Committee members, partners, and 17 PGS participants in a celebration of dedication, learning, and commitment to organic agriculture. The event highlighted the growing momentum towards enhancing local organic markets and strengthening trust-based certification systems for smallholder farmers across Kenya.

Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) are locally focused quality assurance systems that certify producers based on active stakeholder participation, trust, transparency, and shared learning. Through the Kilimohai Organic framework, PGS continues to play a critical role in improving market access for organic farmers while empowering communities to uphold organic standards.

The PGS Capacity Development Programme for ToTs and Assessors ran from June 2023 to July 2024 and equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills in organic standards, assessment procedures, farmer support, documentation, and quality assurance systems.

A total of 11 participants successfully completed the rigorous training and certification process and were awarded Certificates of Practice as certified PGS ToTs and Assessors:

1. Michael Wangalwa – BvAT
2. Elsa Oluoch – BvAT
3. Miriam Makato – BvAT
4. Sylvia Mutheu – KOAN
5. Benard Kabutha – KOAN
6. Henry Muriithi – KOAN
7. Samson Kiiru – Slow Food Kenya
8. Francis Muia – Slow Food Kenya
9. Stephen Muthui – Slow Food Kenya
10. Norbert Ogembo – The Livelihoods Foundation
11. Esther Kagai – CSHEP

Their certification represents an important investment in the future of organic agriculture in Kenya. These assessors and trainers are now equipped to support farmers, strengthen PGS groups, uphold organic integrity, and expand awareness of sustainable and agroecological farming practices across communities.

In addition, certificates of participation were awarded to participants who successfully took part in the PGS Capacity Development Programme:

Anthony Nandunga, Michael Wangalwa, Peter Murage, Magdalene Wangeci, Joseph Mbithi, Elsa Oluoch, Anthony Musili, Nelly Wambui, Elias Biwott, Miriam Makato, Terry Aseneka, Stanley Kosgei, Erick Nyamai, Paul Mutua Muisyo, Joanne Simiyu, Pamela Milanoi Ntunyoi, Edward Muiruri, Nicholas Siso, Sylvia Mutheu, Benard Kabutha, Henry Muriithi, Jacklyne Njeri, Samson Kiiru, Francis Muia, Stephen Muthui, Norbert Ogembo, and Esther Kagai.

The graduation reflects KOAN’s continued commitment to building strong local organic systems and promoting sustainable agriculture through capacity development and collaboration with sector stakeholders.

As Kenya’s organic sector continues to grow, the role of certified PGS Assessors and Trainers becomes increasingly important in ensuring credibility, farmer empowerment, and consumer confidence in locally produced organic products.

Congratulations to all the graduates for this remarkable achievement. The journey ahead is promising, and it is now time to roll up the sleeves and continue working towards the betterment of farmers, consumers, and the environment.