Sam Baluku Email & Phone Number

Kenya

I work on a USAID Project - Miyonga Fresh Greens where my expertise in produce sourcing and aggregation stands out. I facilitate with external bodies for packhouse inspections, and internal audits for all certifications, oversee the certification process, and provide ongoing support to certified farmers. I expertly work with internal stakeholders to plan the rearing of seedlings, the preparation of the field, the planting of crops, their growth and harvest, and the monitoring of crop quality. It is vital that I recognize champion farmers and contribute ideas to internal trial plans, schedule and report field demonstrations. I find and hire the best farmers, and service providers, and offer pertinent guidelines for organic agronomic tasks all while regularly inspecting and analyzing crops to assess their health, growth, and potential risks. I create technical sheets to direct the inspection of raw materials while evaluating the findings and formulating suggestions for enhancements.

Kenya

Supervised workers in all aspects of dairy production, maintaining the equipment for milking, designating good pastures, and managing the herd. Led a team where we prioritized improving nutrition for dairy animals subsequently, we outperformed our expectations and achieved a 100% increase in milk output i.e., from 18 to 32litres on average per day. Maintained inventory for dairy products and employed various order techniques to feed, water, and monitor livestock. Stayed updated on new pests and diseases and provided timely advice on prevention and control measures so as to provide medical treatment via administering medications and vaccinations; or arranging for veterinarians to provide more extensive treatment. Assisted in recordkeeping for the department, including but not limited to, ensuring proper documentation is available in customer files, coordinating with team members, and preparing such documentation for regulatory/audit requests.

Kitale, Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya

Prioritized end-to-end project management and delivered key tactical and strategic regulatory initiatives across growth-related initiatives. Successfully developed and managed the summer flower farm and dairy production that sat on 20 acres while monitoring and planning the success of the farm all while cutting and minimizing costs. Promoted sustainable farming practices that reduced environmental impact while advocating for the use of organic fertilizers, conservation tillage techniques, and precision agriculture methods.Recruited, trained, and supervised all casual farm workers including coaching women in agri-business while conducting workshops, giving presentations, and offering technical support to disseminate the latest research findings and best practices in crop production. Prepared timely and periodic reports in line with project reporting guidelines and set deadlines while performing any other duty assigned by the supervisor. Implemented integrated pest management strategies to minimize the impact of pests and diseases on crop production.

Uganda

Steered the maintenance of records and registers and assisted in the day-to-day operation of the 500-acre sweet yellow passion fruit farm. Supported the Farm Supervisor in coordinating the development and implementation of farm activities to support agricultural education and training programs. Prioritized a wide range of general agricultural tasks supporting cropping and production systems such as operating machinery and harvesting crops.

Kenya

Served in the Green-gro project where I developed relationships with customers and farmers who needed farm tractor services i.e., ploughing, chiseling, harrowing, planting and spraying services. Functioned as a business solutions provider, served as a leader in monitoring the success of the department and conducted small repairs on all farm equipment as necessary. Evaluated and verified employee performance through work reviews all while maintaining excellent relationships with all employees. Conducted experiments and studies to investigate plant genetics, soil composition, nutrient management, pest control, and other factors that can affect crop production.

Uganda

Prioritized capacity building of smallholder farmers on improved agricultural practices and technologies all while preparing timely reports on pest outbreaks and diseases. Used data to develop soil management plans, recommend appropriate fertilizers and nutrient treatments, and implement erosion control measures to prevent soil degradation and nutrient loss. Participated in marketing and trading activities, input supply, post-harvest handling, storage, product processing, and mobilization of resources. Planned and conducted tailor-made adaptive research, and advised on development in response to the demands of the farmers.

Master Of Arts - Ma, Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Agriculture, General