A section of retired teachers from the Teso region is embracing agriculture as a new lease on life after service. They are transforming idle land into productive farms while strengthening their social and economic well-being. What started as a small idea has grown into a movement that is redefining retirement in the region.

Retired Teachers Welfare Association

Operating under the Retired Teachers Welfare Association (RTWA), the group has partnered with FIPS Africa to adopt modern farming techniques. Their focus is 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 KSh14,000 annually, with harvesting done twice a year,” said Otiende. He noted that a 50-by-100-foot plot can accommodate up to 20 trees, meaning a retired teacher could earn nearly KSh300,000 per year from a relatively small piece of land.

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. They are sharing knowledge of modern, sustainable agriculture while promoting food security and inspiring younger generations to consider farming as a viable livelihood. This community impact is perhaps as valuable as the income they earn.

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.

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. This blend of income generation and social connection is proving to be a powerful formula for retired teachers who might otherwise face isolation and financial struggle.

The success of the Teso retired teachers offers a blueprint for other retirees across Kenya. Grafted Hass avocado farming is accessible, profitable and sustainable. The trees begin producing within three to four years and can continue bearing fruit for decades. With export markets already secured, farmers have confidence that their harvest will find buyers.

Other retired teachers, farmer groups and even county governments looking to start similar initiatives can source certified grafted Hass avocado seedlings from reputable nurseries such as Farmers Trend Limited. The nursery offers high-quality grafted seedlings that are disease-free, true to type and ready for planting. For bulk purchases, Farmers Trend Limited provides very reasonable prices, making it affordable for groups and associations. They can be reached on 0724-559286 or 0790-509684.

As the Teso retirees continue to cultivate both crops and community, their efforts are redefining retirement. They are proving that with the right support, training and quality seedlings, life after formal employment can be both productive and fulfilling.

Credit: Kimutai Langat

https://farmerstrend.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Retired-Teachers-Welfare-Association.jpghttps://farmerstrend.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Retired-Teachers-Welfare-Association-150x150.jpgFarmersTrend# TrendingA section of retired teachers from the Teso region is embracing agriculture as a new lease on life after service. They are transforming idle land into productive farms while strengthening their social and economic well-being. What started as a small idea has grown into a movement that is redefining...New Generation Culture in Agriculture