ADS Western Shines at ASK Kakamega Show, Wins Top Awards for Community Empowerment and Innovation

The 2026 Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Western Kenya Branch Show, held in Kakamega from June 10–13, concluded on a high note, with Anglican Development Services (ADS) Western Region emerging among the top exhibitors for its outstanding contribution to community empowerment, sustainable agriculture, and innovative development solutions.

Throughout the four-day exhibition, ADS Western showcased a range of transformative technologies and initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods across Western Kenya. Visitors to the stand were exposed to practical demonstrations on regenerative agriculture, kitchen gardening technologies, climate-smart farming practices, and community-led development approaches that are empowering women, youth, and vulnerable households.

The organization has invested significantly in interactive learning technologies and demonstration models to ensure visitors gain practical knowledge that can be replicated within their communities. The exhibition also highlighted ADS Western’s impact through various development projects that promote food security, economic empowerment, environmental conservation, and social transformation.

ADS Western’s efforts were recognized through several prestigious awards: crowned Best Stand in Women/Men Activities, Empowerment and Capacity Building and Best N.G.O./C.B.O. Project Stand, showing its commitment to strengthening communities and advancing sustainable development, also secured Third Place in the Stand that Best Interprets the ASK Show Theme – Agricultural Based Category and Third Place in the Best Organization/Association Supporting and Promoting Community Projects and Services Category.

These accolades reaffirm ADS Western’s leadership in promoting climate-smart agriculture, enhancing community resilience, and delivering impactful development programmes across the region.

Speaking after the awards ceremony, ADS Western Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Stephen Amusala, applauded the dedication of staff, partners, and communities who continue to contribute to the organization’s success. “These awards are a testament to the power of working closely with communities at the grassroots level. Real and sustainable transformation happens when communities are actively involved in identifying solutions to their challenges and driving their own development agenda,” he said.

Mr. Amusala further called upon development partners, government agencies, private sector actors, and well-wishers to strengthen partnerships with ADS Western in advancing sustainable community development across the region.

As the organization prepares to celebrate 30 years since its official registration in 2027, ADS Western reflects on a journey marked by significant achievements, growth, lessons learned, and lasting impact in the lives of thousands of households.

To mark this milestone and strengthen its long-term engagement with communities, the organization announced plans to establish a Community Resource and Training Centre in Muraka, Kakamega County. The centre will serve as a hub for learning, innovation, and knowledge sharing, ensuring that communities continue to access information, training, and support even after specific projects or major events such as the ASK Show have concluded.

The award ceremony was presided over by H.E. FCPA Fernandes Barasa, Governor of Kakamega County, who commended exhibitors for showcasing innovations that contribute to agricultural transformation and socio-economic development in the region.

The successful participation at the 2026 ASK Kakamega Show further reinforces ADS Western’s vision of empowered communities living dignified and productive lives through sustainable development interventions.