FARMERS in Africa have been urged to adopt sustainable agricultural practices that prioritise soil health, climate resilience and integrated pest management.
This call for action was made at the 2nd Eastern Africa Agroecological Conference, where policymakers, scientists and stakeholders discussed transformative solutions aimed at enhancing productivity and ensuring food security across the region.
During the opening remarks, Dr Christopher Wanga, director in charge of policies at the State Department of Livestock in the Ministry of Agriculture, pointed out the importance of a holistic approach to agriculture.
“Our food systems are primarily agriculture-based, as such, environmental conservation plays a crucial role in our agronomic practices. To improve soil health, enhance crop yields and reduce reliance on chemical inputs, farmers must adopt integrated pest management and conduct regular soil testing,” Wanga said.
He urged farmers not to forget the five areas of focus in promoting sustainable farming that include increasing biodiversity, strengthening animal health, ensuring clean land and preserving natural resources.
He said the Ministry of Agriculture has been at the forefront of promoting these sustainable practices.
“Kenya’s government is committed to an agricultural transformation agenda that focuses on resilience, sustainability and socio-economic development,” Wanga said.
The director noted that the country is implementing a national agroecology strategy aimed at promoting
climate-resilient agricultural value
chains and strengthening food security.
