Agroecology is the right path to Kenya's food security

Farmers harvest maize in Uasin Gishu county. [File, Standard]

As the climate crisis intensifies, complicating food security challenges in Kenya, the country needs a meaningful shift in how we produce, distribute and consume food.
The path forward lies in embracing agroecology, a holistic approach with the potential to not only nourish our people but also heal our planet.

At the Agroecology Symposium held in Nairobi on November 6-7, more than 200 stakeholders came together united by a shared vision - making Kenya’s food systems more sustainable.

The resounding message was clear: agroecology is no longer a niche concept, but a life-changing force that must be central to our national agenda.
Agroecology is not merely a set of farming techniques. It is a knowledge system that draws from the wisdom of local communities, one that recognises that soil, water, biodiversity and human well-being are interconnected.

Agroecological practices mimic natural ecosystems to enhance resilience, reduce reliance on harmful inputs and empower smallholder farmers – the backbone of our food system.

At the heart of agroecology lies the recognition that small-scale farmers are the custodians of our land and the engines of our food system. We need to support their efforts through targeted policies, financial incentives and market access. This will help unleash innovation and entrepreneurship that will transform lives in rural areas. Agroecology also has the power to address inequities that have long plagued Kenya’s food system.

Women and young people are often marginalised in conventional agriculture – providing the bulk of the labour but getting only a small share of the profits. Empowering them can create food value chains that are more inclusive and egalitarian. The benefits of shifting to agroecology extend far beyond the farm gate. Agroecological practices can mitigate the effects of climate change by promoting biodiversity, enhancing soil health and reducing reliance on synthetic inputs.

This is particularly crucial for Kenya, where the effects of global warming are already being felt by vulnerable communities. But there are obstacles. Entrenched interests, limited funding and a lack of political will have hindered greater adoption of agroecological approaches.

These challenges can be overcome, though – if we push to hold our leaders accountable and demand bold action. The symposium’s recommendations provide a clear roadmap for action.

The national government must expedite the implementation of the National Agroecology Strategy, ensuring comprehensive monitoring and evaluation. This strategy must have supportive legal frameworks that protect farmer-managed seeds and address biosecurity risks.

Ms Mbenya is the Country Coordinator for PELUM Kenya