Chuka University and Kibari Bee Farm Forge Partnership for Agricultural Research and Innovation

The MOU delineates several crucial areas of cooperation aimed at driving innovation and growth within the agricultural sector. Kibari Bee Farm will function as an off-campus station and model farm for Chuka University, offering practical learning, research, and training opportunities in apiculture and aquaculture to students and faculty members. The university will also leverage its experimental farm in Kairini for honey production and other hive products, integrating academic research with practical applications to enhance apiculture practices.

A key focus of the partnership will be on scientific, technological, and economic research, targeting improvements in processing, quality, grading, and packaging techniques for bee and fish products. Both institutions will collaborate on advancing research in fish farming and beekeeping, conducting joint publications to disseminate their findings. The MOU also aims to support fish farming, feed production, and the supply of fish produce, alongside boosting honey and other bee product outputs on the farm. Extension support services will be developed to aid small-scale fish farmers and beekeepers in Meru County and the Mt. Kenya Eastern region.

To sustain these initiatives, Chuka University and Kibari Bee Farm will jointly prepare proposals to secure government funding and grants. These resources will be channelled towards promoting fish farming, producing and supplying fish products and feeds, and advancing beekeeping. The collaboration will also involve organizing workshops, seminars, and training programs to share knowledge and best practices with the community. Detailed action plans will be crafted for each activity, outlining objectives, methodologies, timelines, costs, and benefit-sharing rules. The partnership may also include joint efforts with other organizations or individuals to achieve the outlined objectives.

During the launch, Prof. Mutembei expressed his enthusiasm for working with Kibari Bee Farm and KIMFRI, highlighting the practical learning and research opportunities this partnership would provide for students. Mr. Titus Mwirigi, Director of Kibari Farm, emphasized the potential for value addition and job creation through this collaboration. Dr. Kevin Obiero from KIMFRI noted the MOU’s potential to train postgraduate students, impact the youth, pioneer research, and equip graduates with essential skills. The event featured a comprehensive tour of Kibari Farm’s facilities, showcasing the collaborative spirit and shared vision driving this initiative, which is set to create key opportunities for education, innovation, and community development.