24-month report
24-month report: Continued progress in Cheboin, Kenya
Bergman & Beving has a shared commitment in Cheboin, Kenya, where the group, together with Hand in Hand, contributes to strengthening entrepreneurship, gender equality, and sustainable development. The goal is to contribute to 175 businesses being started or strengthened and 228 jobs being created by 2026. After 24 months, the project continues to show progress, with more members, more groups, and more jobs.
Margaret (in white polo t-shirt) business trainer showing members how to make liquid soap.
Since the last update, the number of members has grown from 211 to 251, spread across 13 self-help groups compared with 11 after 18 months. The number of jobs has risen from 158 to 185, and a total of 115 businesses have been started or strengthened in areas including poultry, dairy, vegetable farming, and mixed agriculture. All groups have now completed the entrepreneurship module, laying the foundation for continued business activity.
The community-based organisation (CBO) is now fully operational and consists of 73 members from three groups. Together, they have chosen poultry as their primary value chain. The next step is a planned investment in an incubator to strengthen production and create better conditions for joint market development.
The local savings and loan systems continue to play an important role in the project, and 54 members have additionally gained access to external loans totalling approximately 255,000 Kenyan shillings through banks and microfinance institutions. This has made it possible for more members to invest in and develop their businesses.
Greener farming and greater gender equality
Cheboin’s agroecological demonstration farm remains a central place for hands-on learning. Around 200 members have been trained in kitchen gardens and tree-seedling management, and 400 tree seedlings have been distributed alongside training in agroforestry. Hand in Hand also works actively on gender equality through the Gender Action Learning System (GALS), which strengthens dialogue around ownership, access to resources, decision-making, and cooperation within the household. This contributes to more equal conditions for both women and men.
The way forward
After 24 months, the partnership with Hand in Hand continues to contribute to a stronger and more resilient local community in Cheboin. The continued focus is on strengthening the poultry value chain, improving access to markets and financing, and continuing training in leadership, environment, and sustainable farming practices.
About Hand in Hand
Since 2003, Hand in Hand has contributed to economic development in vulnerable areas by strengthening people’s opportunities to build their own livelihoods. The organisation has helped start millions of businesses and create millions of jobs. Hand in Hand is audited by Svensk Insamlingskontroll (the Swedish Fundraising Control) to ensure that donated funds are used appropriately.
For more information about Hand in Hand, please visit their website.