The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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In the drylands of Embu and Tharaka Nithi, farmers are rewriting their story of resilience and prosperity.
A new report reveals that smallholder farmers are achieving higher yields, better incomes, and improved climate resilience through the Strengthening Regenerative Agriculture in Kenya (STRAK) project.
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The initiative, backed by the IKEA Foundation through AGRA and implemented by Farm Africa, has reached over 50,000 farmers with regenerative farming methods that restore soil fertility, conserve water, and increase profitability while protecting the environment.
“Farmers are showing that sustainability and profitability go hand in hand,” said Mary Nyale, Farm Africa’s Kenya Country Director. “They are producing more, earning more, and safeguarding the ecosystems they rely on.”
Big returns from simple practices
The results are impressive. In Tharaka Nithi, regenerative maize farming is delivering a benefit-cost ratio of 5.0 — meaning every shilling invested yields five in return.
In Embu, farmers applying techniques such as mulching, manure use, and fertiliser microdosing are earning net benefits of over Sh211,000 per hectare.
The impact extends beyond staple crops. Many households have diversified into beekeeping, poultry rearing, and agroforestry. Beekeeper Mati Mwasia, for example, has increased his honey harvest from 20kg to 50kg and now trains over 300 other farmers.
Similarly, 27-year-old Godfrey Kirimi has doubled his tomato harvests, growing his agribusiness to six acres and employing more than 30 workers.
From farms to county policies
Beyond individual farms, STRAK is influencing county development plans by mainstreaming regenerative agriculture into local government strategies. Currently, 76% of farmers in target regions have embraced these practices, supported by Village-Based Advisors who offer training and market linkages.
With climate change threatening traditional farming, STRAK demonstrates that eco-friendly farming is not only viable but profitable. Its success has made it a model for sustainable development, with potential to be replicated across other arid and semi-arid regions of Africa.
Farm Africa, the charity leading the programme, has consistently championed farming in harmony with nature. Its message is clear: boosting production must go hand in hand with restoring ecosystems and biodiversity.
