Guild member and Scotland-based photographer Craig Stephen attended the 2025 International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Congress through the Joe Watson Legacy Fund, which provides BGAJ members opportunities to develop their international experiences.
The phrase “life-changing experience” is, in my opinion, used rather liberally these days. However, hand on heart, my first visit to Africa truly deserved that description. Having photographed part of the IFAJ Congress in Scotland some years ago, I thought I had a reasonable idea of what to expect when I was fortunate enough to receive one of two assisted places, courtesy of the Joe Watson Legacy Fund. I was wrong.
From meeting fellow UK delegates at Kenyan immigration to the semi-tearful goodbyes at the departure gate just a week later, the entire experience was nothing short of inspirational. It was fascinating to see how sectors we work within here in the UK navigate the very real challenges of producing food in what, to my eyes, is an incredibly demanding environment with limited resources. The images I created along the way exceeded anything I imagined capturing and have brought a much-needed breadth and diversity to my portfolio.
Spending quality time building new friendships within the IFAJ network was a real highlight, and I’ve enjoyed staying in touch with many of those connections since returning home. It was also particularly touching to hear so many delegates share fond and often amusing anecdotes about Joe, and to witness the warmth with which he is remembered.
So, to anyone reading this — (and remember, I’m just a photographer!) especially those new to IFAJ — I can only urge you to attend a Congress and, hopefully, experience something just as positive and enriching as I did.
Craig Stephen’s images capture scenes from Karunguru Coffee Estate, Kagawe Tea Factory, Isinya Flowers, and Vertical Lake in Rongai, highlighting Kenya’s mix of traditional practices and modern innovation.
