“We have opened an organic hotel where we are selling what we are producing from our farm.” Photo credit: AFSA
Excessive use of agrochemicals and problems with soil management have led to land degradation in central Kenya, with some farmers becoming recipients of food aid as a result. Efforts to increase soil fertility with organic fertilizers are a key solution.
A project started by Grow Biointensive Agriculture Center of Kenya (G-BIACK) in three counties promoted the use of compost and manure, soil and water conservation structures, crop residue management and open pollinated and indigenous seeds. There are over 8,000 farmers engaged in organic farming thanks to these efforts. Rates of organic manure application have been increasing, with a rapid decline in the use of agrochemicals. At least 30% of the farmers reported increased food production. Farmers also noticed improvements in food quality and indigenous seeds are in high demand.
- G-BIACK. (2014). Organic and soil fertility practices bring food and livelihood security to farmers in central Kenya. AFSA Case Study. Retrieved from afsafrica.org
- G-BIACK
The post Organic soil fertility promotion in Kenya appeared first on Seed Map.