In a region where climate conditions continue to challenge traditional farming, Izera Ranch has emerged as an inspiring example of sustainable agriculture, integrating livestock production, environmental conservation, and community livelihoods into one thriving ecosystem.
Founded 16 years ago as a drought-mitigation alternative for livestock from Kajiado County, Izera Ranch has transformed into a 20,000-acre ecological zone. The ranch boasts of a diverse range of facilities including structured grazing fields, solar-driven water systems, an aviation strip, and recreational and residential facilities currently under development.
The construction of a new airstrip is envisioned to serve as an emergency stopover for aircraft traveling between Mombasa, Arusha, and Nairobi. Once completed, the airstrip is expected to improve accessibility, support emergency aviation needs, and open new opportunities for agri-tourism and rapid response in the region.
A drone shot of proposes airstrip
The ranch owner Engineer Wambugu Kariuki says the land has undergone a remarkable journey of planning and ecological restoration. “It took time to secure leases, rehabilitate the land, and develop ecological zones. But today, Izera Ranch stands as proof that sustainable livestock farming is possible. Even as we expand infrastructure to support future growth,” he said. “In partnership with Equity, I have transformed a small operation in Kajiado into a 20,000-acre farm that balances nature and agriculture impressively.”
The ranch creates employment to about 100 community members, whose work ranges from herding to water provision and animal care. “Cattle keeping isn’t simple. You must have house workers, shelter the animals, and supply water daily. It takes a dedicated team,” he noted.
Izera Ranch is also recognized for its harmonious coexistence with wildlife. Several solar-powered boreholes continuously pump water into shallow dams accessible to wild animals, significantly reducing human-wildlife conflict. “Our duty is to ensure the wildlife has reliable access to water. The solar pumps never switch off,” Wambugu said.
Aerial image of the expansive Izera Ranch provides a comprehensive view of the farm and its surroundings
Izera Ranch’s innovative model has not only transformed local agriculture but also captured the attention of key industry players. Equity, led by Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director, Moses Nyabanda visited the ranch to explore potential partnerships that could replicate and scale such agribusiness success stories across the country. This engagement highlights the growing recognition that sustainable farming practices -when aligned with financial support and strategic collaboration – can drive both economic growth and environmental resilience nationwide.
After touring the ranch, Equity Bank Managing Director, Moses Nyabanda commended the operation as a strong example of resilience and innovation in Kenya’s agricultural landscape. “Engineer Wambugu reflects the spirit of growth Equity stands for,” he said.
A section of the Equity Bank Kenya Exco team admire a herd of billy goats grazing at the ranch, getting an up-close look at the farm’s livestock operations
The Managing Director applauded the ranch for its impressive strides, highlighting the Izera Ranch’s 2,000 free-range cattle, improved breeding through international genetics, and enhanced overall productivity, which are pillars of Equity’s Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan. “Workers here are drawn from surrounding local communities, and we intend to empower them with financial knowledge and access to affordable products ranging from developmental loans, education financing, or support to start small businesses,” he added.
Both parties expressed confidence in the road ahead. “The future matters more than the past,” Engineer Wambugu remarked. “We have the potential and Equity has the expertise. Together, we can unlock transformative opportunities.”
With its balance of livestock, wildlife, and innovation, Izera Ranch continues to stand out as a blueprint for what sustainable agriculture can look like in Kenya’s rangelands.
A view of the young goats safely enclosed in a pen, exploring their space at the ranch