Post: Narok Farmers Embrace Agroecology to Tackle Climate Change

Narok: On a small farm in Narok, beans climb between tall stalks of maize, their leaves shielding the soil from the scorching sun. Chicken roam freely, pecking at insects, while a line of native trees forms a natural windbreak. Their fallen leaves enrich the soil, closing the cycle of life.According to Kenya News Agency, this picture of balance and resilience illustrates agroecology, a farming approach that works with nature rather than against it. Environmental advocates describe it as a symphony, with every crop, animal, and tree playing its part to produce food, enrich soil, and protect families from climate shocks.For Narok, the shift cannot come soon enough. Satellite studies show that 41 percent of farmland is degraded, with only four percent showing signs of recovery. The evidence is visible on the ground: shrinking harvests, eroded soils, and increasing threats from climate change.Last week, a four-day gathering at a Narok hotel brought together farmers, academicians, indigenous leaders, county officials, and youth to chart a way forward. What began as a farming workshop grew into a dialogue on survival, dignity, and community sustenance.The event, co-hosted by WWF-Kenya and the Narok County Government, was part of Kenya's National Agroecology Strategy (2024-2033). The plan seeks to reshape how food is grown and shared nationwide, but its urgency is perhaps most visible in Narok.'Agricultural productivity in Narok has sharply declined due to poor land use and unsustainable practices,' said Joshua Cheruiyot, Deputy Director of Agriculture in Narok County. 'We need an integrated approach that puts climate resilience and food security at the center.'For WWF's Nancy Rapando, agroecology is more than a farming technique. 'It's science, it's practice, and it's a movement,' she said. 'It means caring for the land, growing food in ways that last, and making sure communities are treated fairly.'Education was also emphasized. Dr. Morris Omollo of Maasai Mara University highlighted the importance of bl ending modern science with indigenous knowledge passed down through generations. 'Our future depends on it,' he said.Community projects in Narok are already bearing fruit. Action Africa Health's Enkima Project has distributed more than 24,000 clean cooking stoves and is developing a 40-year carbon credit program. 'We're not just cutting emissions,' explained project lead Githaiga Kamau. 'We're supporting healthier, more sustainable households.'But lasting change will also require stronger policies. 'Narok must develop county-specific solutions that connect with national frameworks,' said Juma Mohammed of the Intersectoral Forum on Agrobiodiversity and Agroecology (ISFAA). 'This creates synergy, prevents overlaps, and strengthens governance.'Climate change realities were central to discussions. Anne Oloolumbwa of the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) reminded participants that 80 percent of Kenya is arid or semi-arid. She urged investment in early warning systems and the integration of indigen ous wisdom with modern science to help communities prepare for shocks.Beyond farming methods, the gathering emphasized the value of communication, revitalizing indigenous foods, and building supply chains that empower smallholder farmers.In Narok, agroecology is becoming more than national policy; it is a movement rooted in community survival and cultural resilience. As one participant put it, the practice shows that when people and nature work in harmony, both can thrive.