NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

By Mercy Kahenda

Farmers and fresh produce traders in the South Rift region have turned to social media and farm-based sales to bridge the market gaps brought by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many agricultural producers are grappling with supplies that they cannot sell due to restrictions imposed by the government to contain the spread of the virus, and people’s fear of contagion in crowded places that has left markets almost empty.

The farmers hope that by using the non-contact channels and selling at source they will cut their post-harvest losses that come with lack of access to the traditional markets.

Photo courtesy of Peter H.