The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), in collaboration with the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), is launching an ambitious five-year research initiative titled “Mama Shamba Maisha.” This groundbreaking project aims to evaluate the impact of a comprehensive agricultural intervention on the health of pregnant women, birth outcomes, and infant well-being. The program will enroll women in early pregnancy and follow them through to one year after delivery, measuring various health indicators throughout this period.
As part of the implementation strategy, the research team is seeking to recruit qualified, experienced, and community-committed individuals for the role of Farm Trainers. This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of health, agriculture, and community development while contributing to transformational research that could influence maternal and child health policy.
If you are passionate about agriculture, enjoy working with rural communities, and believe in the power of sustainable farming, this opportunity is for you.
Position Title: Farm Trainers (4 Positions)
Job Grade: KMR 10
Location: Migori County (Rongo or Suna East/West Sub-counties)
Reporting to: Agricultural Trainer
Contract Terms: One-year renewable contract (based on performance and availability of funds)
Deadline: 28th May 2025, by 5:00 PM
Key Responsibilities
As a Farm Trainer, you will play a crucial role in empowering women participants through agricultural education and practice. You will support the development and operation of demonstration farms and act as a bridge between the study participants and the project’s agricultural goals.
Your key duties will include:
- Conducting group and individual agricultural training sessions for study participants.
- Developing and maintaining the Mama Shamba Maisha model farm, ensuring it aligns with project goals.
- Setting up and managing demonstration plots to facilitate hands-on learning experiences.
- Keeping accurate and updated farm productivity records.
- Engaging participants through farm-based discussions to reinforce training and offer tailored guidance.
- Promoting best practices in sustainable farming, including soil conservation, pest control, and crop planning.
- Building relationships with local farmers, community leaders, and agricultural extension officers to enhance community engagement.
- Assisting the Agricultural Training Coordinator with input distribution and logistical planning for farm supplies.
- Preparing timely and comprehensive reports on training activities and farming progress.
- Participating in other duties assigned by the study leadership to support overall project success.
Person Specification
To be considered for this position, you should meet the following criteria:
- Minimum Education: Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or equivalent.
- Experience: At least four (4) years of hands-on farming or agricultural extension experience, preferably involving smallholder rural farmers.
- Technical Knowledge: Basic understanding of agricultural techniques, soil and water conservation, and pest management.
- Communication Skills: Ability to explain farming practices in a culturally sensitive and engaging manner.
- Certification: A certificate in general agriculture or equivalent field experience is required.
- Local Residency: Must be a resident of Migori County and living in Rongo or Suna East/West Sub-counties for the duration of the study.
- Language Skills: Knowledge of local languages will be an added advantage.
Desirable Attributes
The ideal candidate will also demonstrate:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of education.
- A strong passion for agriculture, particularly in vegetable farming and food sustainability.
- Strong record-keeping abilities and attention to detail.
- Proactiveness, reliability, and the ability to work independently under minimal supervision.
Employment Terms and Remuneration
This is a one-year renewable contract based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. There will be a three-month probation period upon appointment. The salary is negotiable within the KEMRI Scheme of Service, depending on academic background, demonstrated competencies, and previous experience.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
KEMRI is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We strongly encourage applications from:
- Women
- Persons with disabilities
- Youth
- Candidates from marginalized communities
We emphasize that KEMRI does not solicit any form of payment from job applicants at any stage of the recruitment process—whether during application, shortlisting, interviewing, or offer issuance. Any such requests should be reported immediately.
Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Please refer to the KEMRI website (www.kemri.go.ke) for more details.
- You may also consult the attached PDF (if available) for any additional details provided with this advertisement.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates must apply through the KEMRI E-Recruitment Portal before the deadline. Manual applications will not be accepted.
Deadline for Application: 28th May 2025 by 5:00 PM
