Farmers adding compost in the mix for healthier harvest

Meru farmers are increasingly adopting agroecology to tackle poor soil health, pests, diseases and climate change – and to increase their income.

Farmer Benedicta Nkirote runs Benedicta Farm, where she grows onions and bean varieties such as nyota, angaza and yellow beans.

Her journey into sustainable farming started when she received training in agroecology through the Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (Pelum Kenya).

“I’ve learnt so much and after each training session, I put it into practice and share the knowledge with farmers in my community,” she told the Star.

“I teach them about water harvesting, soil conservation, proper crop planting techniques, composting and other sustainable agricultural practices. Along the way, I’ve also encouraged people to come together to improve their livelihoods.”

Nkirote advocates agroecology or Kilimo Hai, and encourages other farmers to transition to sustainable agriculture.

“My training in soil fertility and water harvesting techniques has allowed me to train over 200 women in eight groups. My goal is to help our community become more self-sufficient and resilient,” she said.

Her farm reflects the practices she teaches as she focuses on smart agriculture, including water harvesting. She has seen a significant improvement in her farming, plus lower expenses and higher yields.

“Before, I used to spend a lot of money on expensive fertilisers, but now I use my own compost, made through the bokashi method, which has helped me maintain a healthier garden,” Nkirote said.

Bokashi is a composting method that uses fermentation to break down food waste and organic matter. “People are realising these chemicals harm our health. We have switched to bio-pesticides, which are safer and more sustainable. We’ve already seen positive changes.”

Isabella Nkaragacha, a member of the Ntumburi Farmers Group, adopted agroecology after she was trained and inspired by Nkirote.

“I have stopped using conventional pesticides and now focus on soil health and bio-pesticides,” Nkaragacha said.

“I have also learnt to use drip irrigation to conserve water and set up a plant nursery. Agroecology has improved my farm and my family’s nutrition. We’re eating healthier, thanks to these practices.”

The shift to agroecology has not only transformed Nkaragacha’s farming practices but also has led to improved economic and health outcomes.

Similarly, Naomi Nkatha, secretary of the Hope Women’s Group in Marurui, shares the same experience. She used to rely on chemical fertilisers and pesticides, which were expensive.

“Now, I use compost and follow proper planting techniques. We’re seeing great results and saving money,” she said. Nkatha said agroecology has made farming more affordable. “I no longer buy expensive fertilisers or pesticides, and that has allowed me to save a lot of money,” she explained.

“I’ve learnt I don’t need tractors to get good results. The new methods are cost-effective and more productive.”

Rosinah Mbenya, the programme operations manager at Pelum Kenya, said agroecology is the most viable route towards food security, food safety and nutrition security.

Agroecological practices include soil health, which is a base for production of healthy food, and therefore a wealthy nation.

Other issues include seeds saving, and enhancing agro-biodiversity and food diversity.