Job Vacancies: County Agronomists

Cereal Growers Association is a national non-profit, member-based organization established in August 1996. Our purpose is to provide a platform for cereal farmers to promote collective action for the sustained improvement of their farming enterprises while addressing industry challenges in Kenya.  CGA works with industry stakeholders such as government agencies, agricultural input suppliers, financial institutions, output buyers, and development partners among others to provide services to its members. We offer cereal farmers in Kenya a functional platform through which their farming businesses can enjoy end-to-end support through farmer representation, information sharing, technology, and business linkage services. 

Job Description

We are seeking dynamic and experienced County Agronomists to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agroforestry principles, project management skills, and a passion for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. The agronomist will play a critical role in promoting sustainable agroforestry practices among farmers and facilitating their participation in carbon markets. This position requires a deep understanding of agroforestry systems, carbon sequestration mechanisms, and market dynamics. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, technical expertise in agroforestry, and a passion for environmental conservation and rural development.

Duties & Responsibilities

The County Agronomist will perform the following responsibilities:

1. Implement an agroforestry project in collaboration with farmers, communities, and partner organizations.
2. Facilitate the training and provide technical assistance to small-scale farmers on tree planting, crop diversification, and potential for generating carbon credits through sustainable land management practices, including agroforestry.
3. Coordinate tree planting activities, including sourcing seedlings, organizing planting events, and following proper planting techniques.
4. Facilitate selection and capacity building of suitable rural agri-preneurs (FSCs) that will offer services to smallholder farmers.
5. Monitor project sites to evaluate performance and address issues as they arise.
6. Collaborate with private and public sector players to establish demo plots, model farms and conduct field days for enhanced agroforestry technology transfer.
7. To collaborate with researchers, extension agents, and other stakeholders to share knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned in agroforestry.

• To lead in the planning and execution CGA’s strategy at the county level by advocating for policies and incentives that support agroforestry adoption and implementation.

1. To coordinate communication between county stakeholders and the CGA head office.
2. To prepare and submit regular progress reports. 

Qualifications and skills 

A degree in any one of the following areas: agroforestry, climate change, agronomy, natural resource management, environmental science, or a related field with demonstrated expertise in agroforestry principles and practices. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal are essential, and motorcycle riding skills. At least 5 years of progressive experience working with smallholder farmers will be an added advantage.

Send your application to recruitment@cga.co.ke by 20^th February 2024. In your cover letter, indicate the county of preference.

Targeted counties: Narok (2), Bomet (1), Nakuru (1), Laikipia (2), Baringo (1), Kericho (1), Nandi (1), Uasin Gishu (1), Elgeyo Marakwet (1), and Trans Nzoia (1).

Join us in positively impacting agriculture, the environment, and communities through agroforestry!