Kenya’s agricultural sector is the lifeblood of the nation’s economy. According to the 2024
economic survey report, it employs a significant portion of the workforce, roughly 40% of the
population and contributes to a substantial 20% to the country’s GDP. This sector fuels not
only job creation and economic output, but it is also a cornerstone of Kenya’s thriving foreign
trade through various exports.
However in recent times, this sector has incurred challenges that affect its productivity.
Reduced quantity and quality of produce due to soil degradation is one of the challenges
affecting farmers. Soil degradation occurs when the soil loses its physical, chemical and
biological quantities making it vulnerable to damage. It is caused by actions such as intensive
farming practices which disturb the soil, excessive tillage, overgrazing, poor farming practices
like mono-cropping and excessive use of fertilizers. When soil degrades, it results in
reduction of soil health biodiversity. Healthy soil is characterized by good drainage where it
can absorb and retain sufficient water and a diverse biological community such as
earthworms and insects. The good news is regenerative agriculture curbs these challenges and
strengthens sustainability.
Regenerative agriculture goes beyond simply growing crops; it aims to revive the soil health.
The approach focuses on several key principles: minimizing soil disturbance, keeping the soil
covered, reducing mono-cropping, integrating livestock grazing and maintaining root systems
in the ground all year round.
This practice offers farmers several advantages. By creating a healthier and more fertile soil,
sustainability in farming is increased by maximizing the produce by getting healthier food
hence increasing the income the farmer gets. Additionally use of organic compounds reduces
the dependency of chemical inputs such as use of synthetic fertilizers. This reduces the cost of
production fostering a healthy and affordable food system.
RA can also serve as a mitigation to climate change effects on agriculture in Kenya.
Unpredicted change in weather patterns and temperatures in recent years has negatively
impacted the produce of farmers in Kenya. Through it, the soil increases the ability to retain
carbon and also conserve water. This makes the farms more resilient to drought therefore
enhancing agriculture in the midst of climate effects in the globe.
Our country is currently facing tough economic times and this practice can serve as a
mitigation to the economic constraints. If we promote the use of organic farming, we would
have reduced the money spent on importing chemical farm inputs. This will help us save
more money and use it for other agricultural activities in the country. However, for this to
work effectively in Kenya, policies need to be implemented and create a favorable
environment. SOCAA together with other partners under the REALMS project have
participated in policy reforms on RA in Kakamega, Bungoma, Uasin Gishu, Kericho and
Nakuru counties.
To enhance our food systems and promote sustainable agriculture, Regenerative agriculture is
a practice that needs proper attention. If we embrace it we will have a more affordable food
system which is healthier and sustainable for the economy. This will be a win-win for
farmers, consumers and the government. RA promotes several SDGs; Zero hunger, climate
action and life on land hence the need for all stakeholders and policy makers to promote
regenerative agriculture in Kenya.
