In the rural heart of Olwadhiya village, a powerful story of resilience and purpose is beginning to take root.
Otto Kapuka, a farmer, author, and community development practitioner, is steadily transforming both land and lives through his commitment to agriculture and community upliftment. Raised in a large and humble family, Kapuka’s early life revolved around subsistence farming.
Working in the fields and caring for livestock alongside his family, he developed a passion for agriculture that would later define his path.
Today, Kapuka is a consultant in training and community development, a life coach, and an author of three books, with a fourth underway.
Despite his diverse professional roles, he continues to describe himself as “a humble son of the soil.”
Turning point
Kapuka explained that his farming journey was shaped by both circumstance and purpose.
He recalled that his late father had set aside a mahangu field for him, intended to be handed over once he got married. However, events unfolded differently. Kapuka said that when his wedding was delayed and the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted his work in training and motivational speaking, he made the decision to focus on the land instead.
“With the support of my parents, who assisted in drilling a borehole, the foundation for the farm was established. Every cent earned thereafter was reinvested into the project, allowing it to grow steadily,” he said.
Kapuka indicated that although the idea for the agricultural project began in 2017, production officially started in December 2019. Despite facing repeated challenges in securing funding, he remained committed to self-financing the venture.
He stressed that he produces a variety of crops, including maize, watermelons, sweet potatoes, butternuts, spinach, and other vegetables. The farmer further emphasized a practical approach starting small and expanding gradually.
Kapuka added that his long-term vision includes integrating livestock such as chickens, pigs, and goats to create a sustainable and self-sufficient farming system.
Farming with purpose
Kapuka said farming has transformed his outlook on life and deepened his sense of responsibility toward his community.
He highlighted that the farm currently employs three full-time workers and seven casual laborers, contributing to job creation in the area. In addition, he said the project supports local food security by providing fresh and affordable produce.
Kapuka further shared that he envisions the farm evolving into a center for learning and development. “My plans include establishing a kindergarten with a feeding program supported by the farm, offering internship opportunities for students, expanding into agro-processing and packaging, and assisting aspiring farmers with training and garden setup services,” he stated.
Kapuka acknowledged that farming comes with several challenges, including limited access to funding, high input costs, lack of modern equipment, difficulty retaining trained workers, and limited access to reliable markets.
However, Kapuka stated that he views these challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation.
Inspiring next generation
Kapuka advised young people and aspiring farmers to take initiative regardless of their starting point.
He encouraged them to start small, make use of available resources, learn from failure, and seek mentorship. He also emphasized the importance of working with family, particularly in making productive use of available land.
Kapuka said agriculture remains the backbone of every nation and stressed that commitment to the sector can create opportunities and strengthen food security.