Empowering Kenyan Farmers Through Soil Health: Insights from PELUM Kenya's Agroecological Approach

By Bathseba Ratemo, Programme Officer|PELUM Kenya

Soil health refers to the soil's ability to function as a living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals, and humans. A recent report by Heinrich Boell Foundation highlights that over 40% of East Africa's soils are degraded, threatening agriculture, food security, and livelihoods. In Kenya, soil erosion leads to an alarming loss of up to 26 tons of soil per hectare annually. Additionally, soil salinization affects 40% of irrigated land, further jeopardizing food production and sustainability.

Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (PELUM) Kenya, is a network of 63 member organizations, championing agroecological principles and practices that enhance soil fertility, bolster food security, and improve livelihoods for small-scale farmers and pastoralists.  The focus in Agroecology is on building and regenerating soil fertility instead of depleting it through chemical – intensive methods. The National Agroecology Strategy for Food Transformation (NAS -FT) launched in November 2024 recognizes healthy soils as critical to agroecological transformation in Kenya. The strategy calls for Government support in soil testing services, farmer trainings and soil monitoring systems. The strategy supports participatory research to develop and promote soil – friendly technologies and innovations tailored to local ecosystems and farmer needs.

"Healthy soils are the foundation of Kenya’s agroecological transformation—restoring fertility, boosting yields naturally, and protecting our environment for future generations."

From Degraded Land to Thriving Organic Farm: Musau Mutisya’s Agroecology Journey

Musau Mutisya, a determined young farmer from an arid and semi-arid area (ASAL), is leading a quiet revolution in his village through organic farming. Once reliant on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, Musau has transitioned into a successful organic tomato producer—an inspiring journey made possible by the Knowledge Centre for Organic Agriculture and Agroecology (KCOA) Project interventions and mentorship from multipliers at GBIACK  (Grow Biointensive Agriculture Centre of Kenya).

Image by GBIACK.

PELUM Kenya is the Country Implementing Partner for the KCOA Project where we have trained +420 Multipliers/Trainers and +1,400 farmers on organic agriculture principles and practices.

Before embracing agroecology, Musau struggled with multiple challenges: limited access to quality seeds, frequent water scarcity, and land degradation caused by rainwater runoff and silt deposits. Like many farmers in his region, he was unaware of how conventional farming practices were damaging his soil and affecting the quality of food he produced and consumed.

His turning point came when a GBIACK multiplier introduced him to the KCOA project. Motivated to learn more, Musau mobilized other farmers in his community to join a five-day KCOA training on organic agriculture and agroecology. The training proved transformative. Musau not only gained practical skills but also became a lead farmer and role model for others.

Today, Musau’s farm is a vibrant demonstration of agroecological practices. He has adopted several sustainable farming techniques, including:

• Raised bed systems and close spacing to optimize land use.

• Deep tillage and composting to improve soil structure and fertility.

• Homemade biopesticides like Super Magro for pest control.

• Urban farming, herbal gardening, and seed saving to enhance self-reliance.

• Soil and water conservation methods such as contour farming and planting napier grass to reduce erosion.

• Agroforestry, which has enriched his farm with over 10 types of fruit trees including mangoes, avocados, lemons, oranges, and bananas.

To tackle water challenges, Musau constructed a shallow well to harvest rainwater, which he uses for irrigation during dry spells. His choice to grow orange flesh sweet potatoes is strategic—this variety matures quickly and thrives under tough conditions, making it ideal for ASAL regions. Musau has also grown a variety of herbs like rosemary, lemongrass, and marigold, which act as natural pest repellents, particularly against whiteflies. His collaboration with Plant Village, another agricultural initiative, has introduced him to parasitoids and advanced biopesticide methods, strengthening his pest management strategies. Importantly, Musau has successfully rehabilitated his previously degraded land, transforming it into a productive and resilient ecosystem. His experience highlights the tangible benefits of sustainable agriculture—enhanced food production, improved soil health, and increased resilience to climate stress.

Image by GBIACK.

Musau Mutisya’s story is a testament to the power of agroecological practices and grassroots knowledge sharing. It underscores the positive change that can occur when youth are empowered with the right tools, training, and mentorship. His journey not only benefits his own household but serves as a beacon of hope for other farmers seeking to transition towards sustainable, organic farming.

PELUM Kenya through its member organizations has reached more than one million farmers and pastoralists. Since 2023, the KCOA Project has trained 1,158 household farmers through the multiplier effect. The modality of PELUM Kenya training involves theory and practical sessions trained in local languages to increase understanding and adoption.