Kirinyaga: 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.
According to Kenya News Agency, the event 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, noted that the platform allowed farmers to explore innovative solutions in soil fertility and pesticide management while exchanging ideas and experiences.
The two-day symposium, held at Kirinyaga University, Kutus, attracted over 700 participants and featured various sessions focused on the practical aspects of organic farming and market access. Participants explored how agroecology can address pressing agricultural challenges while offering practical, inclusive, and innovative solutions tailored for the region.
The event, themed "Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agroecology in East Africa," tackled topics such as phasing out toxic pesticides, youth engagement in agroecology, growing local agroecology markets, and promoting organic farming. Supported by the County Government, the symposium aimed at mitigating the potential negative impacts of chemicals on humans and the environment, specifically targeting horticulture farmers.
The dynamic exhibition provided a platform 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. He emphasized the need to protect both farmers and consumers from the rise in lifestyle-related illnesses linked to pesticide misuse.
Dr. Gachara expressed pride in hosting the first organic farming symposium in Kirinyaga, highlighting the focus on encouraging farmers to embrace organic methods in response to the health and environmental challenges posed by chemical-based agriculture. The goal is to reduce the medical burden arising from the use of agro-chemicals.
Gideon Muya, Programmes Assistant from the Biodiversity and Biosafety Association of Kenya (BIBA), stated, "We are huge promoters of agroecology, we train small-scale farmers on safe production methods by discouraging toxic pesticides and promoting indigenous farming through our campaign dubbed 'Kula Kienyeji.'" He shared insights on the challenges facing agroecological transition and the opportunities for sustainable, farmer-led food systems.