More than 1,000 farmers across Kenya’s semi-arid regions have received intensive training in climate-smart agriculture, empowering them to tackle the growing challenges posed by climate change. The initiative aims to improve food security and livelihoods by promoting sustainable farming methods tailored for dryland conditions.
The training introduced a range of climate-smart agricultural techniques that help maximize productivity in drought-prone areas. These include conservation agriculture practices such as minimal soil disturbance, mulching, and the use of zai pits small planting holes that capture rainwater and improve soil fertility. Farmers also learned how to cultivate drought-tolerant crops like sorghum, millet, and pigeon peas, which are known for their short growing periods and ability to withstand dry conditions.
To reinforce learning through practice, demonstration farms were set up in partnership with county governments in regions such as Kitui, Makueni, and Taita Taveta. These demo plots served as practical learning hubs where farmers could observe and participate in implementing the introduced techniques. Intercropping, crop rotation, and soil fertility management were also showcased, highlighting methods that help sustain yields while conserving the land.
Hands-on training sessions allowed farmers to engage directly with these practices, increasing their confidence and ability to replicate them on their own farms. Conservation agriculture methods such as minimal tillage and water conservation techniques were emphasized, especially for their role in enhancing resilience in areas with unpredictable rainfall.
The results have been striking. Farmers reported yield increases of up to 55% even during seasons with below-average rainfall, with some achieving an average of 1,037 kilograms per hectare. This substantial improvement underscores the effectiveness of combining drought-resilient crops with sustainable land management practices.
The program also emphasized gender inclusivity, ensuring that women who make up a significant portion of the agricultural workforce were actively involved. Of the 1,500 farmers who took part in the initiative, 75% were women, and nearly two-thirds of the demonstration farms were managed by women. This inclusive approach recognizes the vital role women play in food production and supports their empowerment in decision-making and resource access.
Another key component of the initiative was the integration of climate information services. By receiving timely weather forecasts and advisories, farmers were better equipped to make decisions about planting, harvesting, and risk management. Access to accurate climate data helped them adapt their practices to the shifting conditions brought on by climate change, increasing the resilience of their farming systems.
Collaborative efforts between research institutions, local governments, and development partners played a crucial role in the success of the program. These partnerships created a supportive environment for knowledge transfer and adoption of innovations, paving the way for long-term sustainability.
The real-world impact is evident in the stories shared by farmers who have adopted the new techniques. Many, like those in Kitui and Nakuru counties, have turned previously unproductive farms into thriving sources of food and income. Encouraged by this success, efforts are now underway to expand the program to other dryland regions in Kenya through broader initiatives aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture.
Training over 1,000 farmers represents a significant step toward climate-resilient farming. By equipping communities with practical tools and knowledge, the initiative is helping transform agriculture in semi-arid areas into a more sustainable, productive, and hopeful endeavor.
