The resilience and ingenuity of farmers are shining through the challenges of climate change and water scarcity. One such farmer, Juliana Wanjiku, a remarkable elderly woman from Mugumo village, has become a beacon of hope in her community. With over three decades of experience in fruit farming, Wanjiku has transformed her three-acre plot of land into a thriving orchard, setting an inspiring example for others in the region.
A Journey of Perseverance
Wanjiku’s journey as a farmer began in the early 1990s when she relocated from Kigumo sub-county as a newlywed. She started her orchard by planting a few banana suckers and orange trees, which thrived despite the harsh climate. Encouraged by her initial success, she embraced mixed farming, introducing mangoes, melons, and lemons into her agricultural repertoire. Her farm became a source of sustenance for her household, especially after the passing of her husband, which left her as the sole breadwinner.
For years, Wanjiku struggled against the odds of living in a semi-arid area, relying on the meager yields from her farm to support her family. However, it was in 2019 that her fortunes began to change dramatically after she attended a training forum on agro-ecology, which focuses on organic farming, sustainable biodiversity use, and conservation agriculture.
Adapting to Water Scarcity
Water scarcity is a critical challenge faced by farmers in Ithanga. The region experiences prolonged dry spells, which can devastate crops. However, Wanjiku learned valuable techniques during her training that allowed her to adapt to these conditions. One of the most impactful strategies was the use of mulching, a practice that helps to reduce evaporation and maintain soil moisture. By applying layers of organic materials on the soil surface, Wanjiku has been able to keep her fruit crops thriving even during periods of drought.
Moreover, she discovered the benefits of producing her own organic manure using locally available materials. This not only alleviated the financial burden of purchasing costly fertilizers but also contributed to enhancing the soil’s fertility and structure. As a result of these innovative practices, Wanjiku’s harvests increased significantly, and the quality of her fruits improved. “I have seen my harvests drastically increase, and my fruits now taste better. People come from far to buy my produce,” she said with evident pride.
Sharing Knowledge and Inspiring Change
Wanjiku’s farm has become a hub for learning and inspiration, attracting officials and farmers from neighboring Makueni County who are eager to learn about agro-ecology. During one such visit, she hosted a delegation, sharing her experiences and insights on sustainable farming practices. Her story is one of empowerment, demonstrating how knowledge transfer can lead to tangible improvements in agricultural productivity.
Moses Mwaura, a representative from the training organization that facilitated Wanjiku’s learning, highlighted the significant impact that transitioning to agro-ecology has had on local communities. “When we started this program in 2019, many families depended on relief food and were living in abject poverty. Now, they are able to sustain themselves,” he stated. This initiative has particularly focused on empowering women, who often play a central role in farming and household sustainability.
Benchmarking for Better Practices
Salome Ndunge, a champion farmer from Makueni, expressed her admiration for Wanjiku’s achievements. She noted that Wanjiku’s ability to maximize harvests from a relatively small piece of land is inspiring and demonstrates the potential of agro-ecology. Ndunge pointed out that many farmers in her county still struggle with conventional farming methods, which leave them vulnerable to pests, diseases, and economic hardships. “Chronic illnesses are rampant among productive farmers, which weakens the economy of our county. This is why we are benchmarking in Murang’a to show people the need for organic farming to reduce morbidity,” she emphasized.
Ndunge is committed to encouraging young people to adopt agro-ecological practices as a pathway to improving their living standards. By fostering a new generation of farmers who are knowledgeable about sustainable practices, she hopes to create a ripple effect that will enhance food security and economic resilience in the region.
Government Support and Future Prospects
The support from local government officials is vital in promoting agro-ecology in Murang’a County. Kiringai Kamau, the County Executive Committee Member for Devolution and External Linkages, reaffirmed the county’s commitment to leading the implementation of agro-ecology in Kenya. “As the leading county in the implementation of agro-ecology in the country, we are happy to support our counterparts in transitioning towards organic farming,” he said.
The collaboration between different counties reflects a broader movement towards sustainable agriculture in Kenya, where traditional farming methods are increasingly being recognized as insufficient in the face of climate change and economic pressures. By sharing resources, knowledge, and experiences, counties like Murang’a and Makueni are working together to create a robust network of agro-ecological farmers.
The Bigger Picture
Wanjiku’s story is just one example of how agro-ecology can transform lives in semi-arid regions. The practice not only enhances agricultural productivity but also contributes to environmental sustainability. By reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, agro-ecology promotes biodiversity and helps to restore ecosystems.
As farmers like Wanjiku embrace these practices, they contribute to the broader goals of food security and resilience against climate change. The potential for agro-ecology to uplift communities and empower women is immense, creating opportunities for economic independence and sustainable development.
Conclusion
The journey of Juliana Wanjiku and her fellow farmers in Ithanga highlights the power of knowledge and adaptation in agriculture. By embracing agro-ecology, they have not only improved their livelihoods but also inspired others to explore sustainable farming practices. As more farmers transition to organic methods, the hope for a more resilient and food-secure future becomes a tangible reality.
With continued support from organizations and local governments, the movement towards agro-ecology can lead to transformative change across Kenya, paving the way for a healthier environment and empowered communities. Through the collective efforts of farmers, advocates, and policymakers, the vision of sustainable agriculture can become a reality, benefiting generations to come.
