How an 81-year-old former medic became a model farmer in Vihiga

SYLVESTER MUHADI-KNA

In the lush hills of Vihiga County, retirement has taken on a new meaning for 81-year-old Mama Erika Imbwaga. After decades in the medical field, many expected her to settle into a quiet life.

But Mama Erika had other plans — she traded hospital corridors for greenhouses, and today she is one of the county’s most admired capsicum farmers.

“When I retired, I told myself I wasn’t going to just sit around waiting for help from people,” she says as she walks around her farm.

“I wanted to stay active, earn my own money, and keep my mind and body engaged,” she said.

Her turning point came during a visit to farmers in Trans Nzoia and Kiambu. What she saw — flourishing greenhouses and thriving agribusinesses — sparked an idea.

Over the years, her curiosity has made her an innovator. Instead of buying expensive fertilisers, she makes her own compost. “Why throw away waste when it can feed the soil?” she asks rhetorically.

“On this farm, nothing goes to waste,” she said.

She has also built her own small seed bank to cut costs. “A packet of seeds can be very expensive, sometimes seven thousand shillings for just a little. So, I started saving my own. That way, I’m not always at the mercy of the market,” she said.

What began as a retirement project has grown into something bigger than herself. Her farm now supports workers from the community and doubles up as a learning centre for visiting students. Walking through her greenhouses is like stepping into a rainbow. Rows of capsicum glow in green, red, yellow, purple, and white.

“These colours brighten my day,” she says with a wide smile. “And when people buy them, I know I’m also putting healthy food on their tables,” she added.

Of course, the journey has not been easy. Pests, diseases, and market prices are constant battles. But Mama Erika has learnt to face challenges head-on.

“Farming will test your patience,” she admits. “But when you love what you do, you find a way. Every time something goes wrong, I tell myself: 'there’s always another season',” she said.