Kirinyaga County has hosted its first agroecology symposium as part of its plan to reduce the use of agro-chemicals in farming.
The two-day event, held at Kirinyaga University in Kutus, brought together more than 700 participants including farmers, agricultural experts, input suppliers, buyers, and exhibitors.
According to the county government, the event aimed to encourage farmers to shift to organic farming and promote the consumption of organically produced food.
Officials cited concerns about health risks and environmental harm linked to the use of agrochemicals.
Discussions during the symposium focused on organic pest management, soil health, and access to markets for organic produce.
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Governor Anne Waiguru explained that the county is training farmers in organic practices as part of the efforts to reduce reliance on agro-chemicals.
“We are undertaking farmers’ training on organic farming because we want to reduce the use of agro-chemicals,” Waiguru stated.
She also noted the wider benefits of organic farming, saying it supports food safety, public health, and environmental conservation.
The county government indicated that around 400 farmers have taken up organic farming so far.
The farmers have been organised into 14 groups, which have joined a cooperative to help them secure markets and financial assistance.
Dr John Gachara, the County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, highlighted that the symposium marked part of the county’s ongoing efforts to promote organic farming methods.
“This is a day we have been planning for. We are proud to host the first organic farming symposium in Kirinyaga. Our focus is to encourage farmers to embrace organic methods in response to the health and environmental challenges posed by chemical-based agriculture,” Gachara stated.
He also pointed out the health risks associated with pesticides. “Our goal is to lower medical burden arising from use of agro-chemical,” Gachara added.
A representative of the Kenya Organic Agriculture Network said the event created an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate and exchange ideas.
“We are pleased to have partnered with Kirinyaga County to organize this symposium that brought together stakeholders including farmers, companies, input suppliers, and extension providers,” the KOAN official remarked.
Alex Muriithi, the founder of Super Ideal Farming Group, described how his group has been supporting farmers in using organic fertilisers made from local materials.
“These fertilizers help reduce crop diseases and are healthier for our bodies,” Muriithi stated.
He added that many farmers have adopted organic methods. “Mast farmers have now embraced organic farming,” Muriithi added.
Agroecology expert Gideon Moya from BIBA Kenya explained his organisation’s work in supporting safer farming practices.
“We are huge promoters of agro ecology, we train small-scale farmers on safe production methods by discouraging toxic pesticides and promoting indigenous farming through our campaign dubbed ‘Kula Kienyeji,’” Moya stated.
An organic farmer, Jane Muchiri of the Mountain Green Group, reflected on why she abandoned chemical-based farming.
“The chemicals we used were destroying the soil microorganisms that maintain fertility, they are absorbed by the crops, and eventually we consume them, this is why diseases are increasing,” Muchiri stated.
The county and its partners indicated that they plan to continue supporting farmers in the transition to organic farming.
The symposium is expected to mark the start of more collaborative efforts to promote safer agricultural practices, better health outcomes, and environmental sustainability in the region.
