A section of retired teachers from the Teso region is embracing agriculture as a new lease on life after service, transforming idle land into productive farms while strengthening their social and economic well-being.
Operating under the Retired Teachers Welfare Association (RTWA), the group has partnered with FIPS Africa to adopt modern farming techniques, with a particular focus on grafted Hass avocado — a high-value crop with strong export demand.
The initiative is already bearing fruit, both literally and figuratively.
According to FIPS trainers Collins Otiende and John Kipchumba, the improved avocado variety matures quickly and delivers impressive returns.
“Each tree has the potential to generate up to Sh14,000 annually, with harvesting done twice a year,” said Otiende, noting that a 50-by-100-foot plot can accommodate up to 20 trees.
The programme emphasises sustainable practices, with farmers encouraged to use organic fertilisers to meet international export standards. FIPS officials say markets have already been identified abroad.
“Export markets have already been identified in Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, as well as the Middle East, including Qatar, with additional opportunities in other international markets,” said FIPS officer Martin Mango.
Beyond income generation, the retirees are positioning themselves as community mentors, sharing knowledge of modern, sustainable agriculture while promoting food security and inspiring younger generations to consider farming as a viable livelihood.
Speaking during a training session in Amagoro on avocado farming, soil sampling and manure production, retiree Mary Emadau urged farmers to maximise locally available resources.
“Instead of spending money on fertiliser, we can use what we already have around us,” she said. “This approach not only reduces costs but also improves soil health.”
The RTWA, which began in 2023 with just eight members, has grown steadily to 65 active participants and has a target of more than 160 retirees. Chairman Jared Olubayi Eng’ong’o said the association combines economic empowerment with social support.
“Membership requires a registration fee of Sh1,000 and a monthly contribution of Sh500. Members also contribute Sh4,850 per month for 10 months towards a medical cover,” he explained.
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In addition to farming, the association organises welfare activities such as regular meetings, emergency support funds and group excursions, including planned trips to Mombasa and Rwanda.
As the retirees continue to cultivate both crops and community, their efforts are redefining retirement — proving that with the right support and innovation, life after formal employment can be both productive and fulfilling.
By Kimutai Langat
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