Kirinyaga County has taken a major step toward promoting safe and sustainable agricultural practices by hosting its first-ever agroecology symposium. The two-day event, held at Kirinyaga University in Kutus, brought together over 700 participants, including farmers, agricultural experts, exhibitors, buyers, and input suppliers, to promote organic farming and healthier food systems.
The symposium focused on encouraging the reduction of agrochemical use in crop production amid growing health and environmental concerns. Participants engaged in sessions that covered practical organic farming techniques such as pest control, soil health management, and improved market access for organic produce.
The event is part of a broader county campaign aimed at transforming conventional farming by training local farmers in safer, eco-friendly methods. Special emphasis has been placed on farmers involved in tomato, French bean, and rice cultivation. These farmers have been organized into 14 groups and federated into a cooperative to enhance access to markets and financial support.
The county government underscored its commitment to helping farmers adapt to climate change and protect public health through sustainable farming. Officials warned that the overuse of chemical pesticides and fertilizers has been linked to lifestyle diseases and environmental degradation. As a result, the county is actively promoting biodegradable alternatives and supporting training on organic inputs.
One of the key objectives of the symposium was to build awareness about the health risks posed by chemical-intensive farming and to promote safer alternatives that enhance food safety, soil fertility, and environmental conservation. Organic farming, according to organizers, offers a pathway to lower medical costs by reducing chemical residues in food and protecting natural ecosystems.
The event also showcased innovations from local farmer groups and NGOs promoting agroecological methods. Attendees learned about the benefits of organic foliar fertilizers made from locally sourced materials, which reduce both crop diseases and production costs. Many farmers have already adopted these techniques, reporting improved crop health and better yields.
Experts in agroecology emphasized the importance of growing indigenous crops and preserving traditional farming knowledge. They argued that such approaches not only safeguard biodiversity but also contribute to food security and resilience against climate shocks. Campaigns such as “Kula Kienyeji” have been launched to promote the consumption of indigenous foods as part of this movement.
Farmers shared personal testimonies of how shifting to organic farming transformed their soil quality, reduced health risks, and cut input costs. They described the damage done by years of chemical use, including the loss of soil microorganisms essential for plant growth.
The symposium marks a significant milestone in Kirinyaga’s journey toward agroecological transformation and a healthier, more sustainable future for its farming communities.
