ABOUT YWAA
Who we are
An association of young women and men aggregators, moving fresh produce from smallholder farms to the markets that need it.
WHO WE ARE
Aggregators, organised
YWAA is an association of young women and men aggregators working across five Kenyan counties. Our members buy fresh produce from smallholder farmers — fruits, vegetables, cereals, eggs, honey, milk and meats — grade it, and move it to the local, regional and export markets that need it.
The association was established in 2023 as an affiliate of Arabuko Limited’s Aggregator Enhancement Program, implemented in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. That partnership remains at the heart of our work: opening agricultural value chains to young aggregators across Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Kiambu and Nairobi.
WHAT WE ARE HERE FOR
Vision and mission
Our Vision
To become the premier hub connecting farmers, aggregators and exporters of fresh produce with local, regional and global markets.
Our Mission
To unite and empower young women and men aggregators to thrive in the agricultural sector by fostering collaboration, providing market linkages, and creating a supportive community where they can collectively address challenges and seize opportunities.
WHY IT MATTERS
Sustainability through young women
Women power much of the agricultural labour force in sub-Saharan Africa, working mainly in smallholder production. Although they make up nearly half of the workforce, women are often not remunerated for their labour and do not have control over the income generated on land they do not own.
YWAA exists to address the barriers that restrict women’s participation in production, processing and trade — so that their contribution to Africa’s economic growth is both recognised and paid for.
HOW WE WORK
Our values
Empowerment
We empower young women and men aggregators to build entrepreneurial skills and thrive in the agricultural market and beyond.
Unity & Inclusivity
We foster a sense of unity, valuing the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of our members as we work toward common goals.
Equity & Equality
We provide fair and equal opportunities for all, irrespective of gender, ethnicity or socio-economic background.
Ethics & Professionalism
We hold high ethical and professional standards in our practices, fostering fairness, integrity and respect.
Impact
We are results-oriented and bold in our actions.
Where our members work
Five counties today, and growing.
- Kiambu County
- Nairobi County
- Machakos County
- Makueni County
- Kajiado County
COUNTY BY COUNTY
What our members aggregate, where
Makueni County
Mango and pawpaw around Kalamba, pixie oranges and tomatoes in Wote Nziu, cereals in Kanaani and poultry in Kisau Kiteta — our Makueni members aggregate across the county.
Kajiado County
Kajiado members like Mary Tumpes and Faith Kipury aggregate milk, poultry and beans, working with groups of smallholder farmers across the county.
Machakos County
New member groups are forming across Machakos, one of our five founding counties. Get in touch to join them or to buy from members near you.
Kiambu County
Gatundu members aggregate day-old improved kienyeji chicks, eggs, arrowroots and leafy vegetables such as managu, spinach and kales.
Nairobi County
In Mathare, members aggregate kienyeji chicken and rabbits for the city market — proof that aggregation works in town as well as upcountry.
Become a member
Young aggregators in Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Kiambu and Nairobi gain training, market links and a network that speaks with one voice.