Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Meru county has launched a Sustainable Agriculture program targeting communities around the conservancy, in a bid to cushion farmers against the growing impacts of climate change.
The initiative, spearheaded by the conservancy’s Community Development Department, seeks to promote Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices, strengthen resilience and improve livelihoods among local farmers.
Speaking during an agriculture expo held at Ngarendare, Buuri Sub County, Meru County, the Conservancy’s Chief Programs and Partnerships Officer John Kinoti said the program focuses on knowledge exchange and leveraging partnerships to enhance sustainable development.
“We are working to equip farmers with practical solutions for climate change adaptation, while promoting sustainable land management,” said Kinoti.
The Programmes Officer said Lewa Conservancy is collaborating with more than 50 industry stakeholders to train farmers on a wide range of modern agricultural practices including conservation agriculture, soil health management, water harvesting, drip irrigation, use of certified and drought-tolerant seeds, integrated pest management, agroforestry and renewable energy solutions.
Farmers who attended the expo praised the initiative, describing it as impactful and informative.
Doreen Kathambi , a member of the Karimi Women Group in Ntirimiti said the training helped her learn improved tomato farming techniques and how to identify certified seeds.
Another farmer, Daniel Kiruki from Matunda, said the forum opened his eyes to agribusiness as a viable income source.
Kinoti noted that more than 3,000 farmers attended the event, where they were introduced to new farming technologies and best practices.
He urged farmers to embrace agriculture as a business rather than a subsistence activity.
“It is the high time farmers approached agriculture commercially including conducting soil testing and adopting modern techniques,” he said, adding that agribusiness presents significant economic opportunities, particularly for young people.
Lewa’s Community Development Officer, Lawrence Riungu, said the program is targeting 13 surrounding communities, most of whose members rely on traditional farming methods.
Riungu emphasized the need to transition to conservation agriculture, especially in dry areas, adding, “We have established demonstration farms in each community to showcase modern practices and we hold at least two agricultural exhibitions annually in every area.”
At the same time, Lewa is also supporting 28 schools, where students are being introduced to agricultural skills.
Meru County Executive Committee Member for Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries, Janaro Gatangugi, said the county government is working closely with Lewa to promote agriculture as a key economic driver.
He noted that additional agricultural extension officers are being deployed to support farmers.
Gatangugi also emphasized the importance of climate-resilient farming, urging farmers to reduce reliance on rain-fed agriculture and adopt irrigation and other adaptive techniques.
By Dickson Mwiti
