The Kenya Organic Agriculture Network (KOAN) and the Kirinyaga county government have organized the inaugural Agroecology symposium in the area.
The conference brought together community leaders, farmers, researchers, and policymakers to reimagine sustainable farming through the lens of agroecology.
It emphasized the urgent need to reduce the use of highly hazardous pesticides to protect health, biodiversity and future food systems.
The Director of KOAN, Eustace Kiarii said the platform allowed farmers to explore innovative solutions in soil fertility and pesticide management, while exchanging ideas and experiences.
The two-day event, held at Kirinyaga University, Kutus, brought together over 700 participants, with different sessions focused on practical aspects of organic farming and market access.
The participants explored how agroecology can address pressing agricultural challenges, while offering practical, inclusive, and innovative solutions tailored for the region,” he said.
Themed Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agroecology in East Africa, it tackled different topics including Phasing out toxic pesticides, Youth engagement in Agroecology, Growing local agroecology markets and promoting organic farming.
The event, complemented by County Government, aimed at mitigating the potential negative impacts of chemicals in humans and the environment targeting horticulture farmers.
The dynamic exhibition offered spaces to showcase innovative agro ecological solutions and practices toward sustainable agriculture in East Africa.
Kirinyaga County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Dr. John Gachara, described the event as a milestone in the county’s transition to agro-ecological farming, warning that any misuse of pesticides may contribute to the rise in lifestyle-related illnesses, hence the need to protect both farmers and consumers.
“We are proud to host the first organic farming symposium in Kirinyaga. Our focus is to encourage farmers to embrace organic methods in response to the health and environmental challenges posed by chemical-based agriculture. Our goal is to lower the medical burden arising from use of agro-chemical,” Gachara said.
Gideon Muya, Programmes Assistant from Biodiversity and Biosafety Association of Kenya (BIBA) said, “We are huge promoters of agro ecology, we train small-scale farmers on safe production methods by discouraging toxic pesticides and promoting indigenous farming through our campaign dubbed “Kula Kienyeji.”
He also shared insights on challenges facing agro ecological transition and the opportunities for sustainable, farmer-led food systems
By Mutai Kipngetich
