How Banana Rapid Multiplication Is Transforming Small-Scale Farming

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Authored by Viola
August 23, 2025

In Bungoma County, a quiet agricultural revolution is underway, led by innovative smallholder farmer Rose Kiaby. Rose is proving that successful banana farming doesn’t require expensive machinery but rather a solid understanding of modern techniques, dedication, and a willingness to adopt new ideas.
 
What Is Banana Rapid Multiplication (BRM)?
The key to Rose’s success is the Banana Rapid Multiplication (BRM) technique; a simple yet powerful method that accelerates the production of banana suckers, the shoots used to propagate new banana plants.
“With BRM, I can produce many healthy suckers at once,” Rose explains. “This helps me expand my farm quickly, sell to other farmers, and still have enough bananas for my own harvest.”
By using BRM, Rose has been able to significantly increase her banana plant population, improve yields, and generate extra income by selling quality suckers to local farmers.
 
The Positive Impact on Bungoma’s Farming Community
Rose’s adoption of BRM has sparked a positive ripple effect in Bungoma’s farming community by:
  • Improving access to quality banana planting materials—more farmers can now source healthy suckers locally.
  • Reducing dependence on costly or unreliable suppliers, saving farmers money and time.
  • Fostering knowledge sharing and community empowerment, as farmers collaborate and learn from each other’s successes.

This community-driven approach strengthens local banana production and supports sustainable farming practices.
 
Why Banana Rapid Multiplication Matters for Kenya’s Smallholder Farmers
In the face of climate change and increasing food demand, BRM offers a practical, low-cost solution for Kenya’s smallholder farmers. It enables rapid farm expansion and higher yields without the need for advanced or expensive technology, making it accessible to farmers across the country.
  
The success story of Rose Kiaby and Banana Rapid Multiplication in Bungoma County highlights how simple, innovative farming techniques can transform livelihoods. As more farmers embrace BRM, Kenya’s banana farming sector stands to benefit from improved productivity, increased incomes, and enhanced food security.
 

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