NAIROBI, Kenya – At a farm in Homa Bay, the work of growing tomatoes, cereals and horticultural crops has become a platform for mentoring young people, promoting gender equality and demonstrating how agriculture can adapt to a changing climate.
That work has brought Bornface Otieno Owino into the spotlight, with a supplied announcement naming him the 2026 United Nations in Kenya Person of the Year and describing him as the first recipient under the age of 30.
Owino was recognised for promoting climate-smart agriculture, training fellow farmers and creating opportunities for both men and women in farming, particularly around the Lake Victoria basin.
His journey began in 2021, when he started farming under the Cereal Growers Association. Since then, he has adopted practices intended to improve agricultural productivity while protecting the land and making farming more resilient to changing weather conditions.
His methods include the use of certified seeds, efficient irrigation, integrated pest management and soil conservation.
Beyond his own farm, Owino has turned the enterprise into a demonstration site where other farmers and young people can learn practical techniques and explore agriculture as a source of income and opportunity.
How a Homa Bay farmer turned his farm into a training ground
Owino’s work extends beyond producing crops. By opening his farm to other farmers, he is helping share knowledge that can be applied by people facing similar challenges in their own fields.
The approach is particularly relevant to small-scale farmers, who often have to balance production costs, changing weather patterns, soil health and the need to earn a reliable income.
Through his collaboration with UN Women Kenya, Owino has also supported farmers with seeds, fish fingerlings and agricultural knowledge.
The initiative reflects a broader effort to make agricultural development more inclusive by ensuring that women and young people can access resources and participate in decisions affecting their livelihoods.
UN Women nominated Owino for the award, according to the supplied announcement, citing his efforts to promote gender equality through opportunities for both men and women.
“Bornface is breaking barriers and building bridges for both men and women,” said Dan Bazira, UN Women Deputy Representative in Kenya.
“He is dedicated to gender equality, proving that when we empower every voice, we shape a future where no one is left behind,” Bazira added.
UN officials praise young farmer’s leadership
Zainab Hawa Bangura, the UN Under-Secretary-General and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi, praised Owino’s commitment and innovation.
“Your dedication, innovation, and excellence exemplify the leadership and potential of your generation,” Bangura said.
She expressed confidence that his contribution would continue to inspire others.
UN Resident Coordinator in Kenya Garry Conille also highlighted the importance of collective action in advancing sustainable and inclusive development, particularly through people working directly with their communities.
Owino said his experience showed that progress should be measured by more than figures, arguing that dignity, opportunity and equality should also count.
“It is possible for young people like me to make a difference in our communities,” he said.
His work is reported to contribute to 10 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Gender Equality and Climate Action.
Why climate-smart farming matters in Kenya
Agriculture remains a major pillar of Kenya’s economy, supporting livelihoods, food production and employment across the country.
The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics’ Economic Survey 2025 reported that agriculture, forestry and fishing contributed an average of 21.8 per cent of Kenya’s gross domestic product between 2000 and 2024.
For farmers in the Lake Victoria basin, practices such as soil conservation, efficient water use and integrated pest management can help address production challenges while reducing pressure on natural resources.
Owino’s demonstration farm provides a practical setting for sharing these techniques, allowing farmers to learn how they can be incorporated into everyday agricultural activities.
The emphasis on youth mentorship is also significant as Kenya seeks to attract more young people into agriculture, a sector that requires both practical knowledge and adaptation to changing environmental and economic conditions.
Rugby star Kevin Wekesa named runner-up
Kenyan rugby sevens international and Olympian Kevin Wekesa was named runner-up in the award, according to the announcement.
Wekesa founded Play Green, an initiative that promotes environmental sustainability in sport through tree planting, plastic-waste reduction, recycling and more environmentally friendly travel at sporting events.
His recognition highlights a different route to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, using sport to encourage environmental responsibility and community participation.
The award recognises individuals and institutions whose work reflects UN ideals and contributes to sustainable development. The United Nations was founded on October 24, 1945, and marks UN Day annually on that date.
