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Lifestyle
Jun 10, 2026
Analyzed by Llama- 4 Scout 17B 16E Instruct

Kenyan Graduates Turn to AI Tools for Farming as Jobs Dry Up

AI Summary
In Kenya, many young graduates are turning to farming as a career due to a lack of white-collar jobs. They are using AI tools and digital skills to improve their agricultural practices and earn a living.

The Shift to Agricultural Entrepreneurship

In Kericho County, Kenya, Chepkorir Rotich, a 33-year-old mother of two, has turned to farming as a way to earn a living. After graduating from college, she struggled to find a job in the formal employment sector and eventually took up contract work. However, she found that farming was a more lucrative and fulfilling career path.

Farming with Code: AI Reshaping Rural Agriculture

Rotich and other young farmers like Geoffrey Kiprop are using AI tools to improve their agricultural practices. Kiprop, a 32-year-old IT graduate, uses apps like Plantix and Virtual Agronomist to manage his crops and livestock. These tools help him detect crop diseases, predict weather patterns, and optimize his farming practices.

The Rise of Digital Agriculture

  • Young farmers are using social media to market their produce and share knowledge with others.
  • AI tools are being used to improve crop yields, detect diseases, and optimize farming practices.
  • The use of digital skills is becoming increasingly important in agriculture.

The Future of Agriculture in Kenya

Experts believe that young people like Rotich and Kiprop are the future of agriculture in Kenya. With the help of AI tools and digital skills, they are able to increase their productivity and earnings. However, they also face challenges such as access to land, funding, and markets.

Conclusion

The story of Rotich and Kiprop highlights the potential of AI tools and digital skills in transforming agriculture in Kenya. As the country continues to face challenges in the job market, farming is becoming an increasingly attractive career path for young people.