Lewa Conservancy empowers farmers on sustainable agriculture techniques
By Gerald Mukembu
Farmers, students, and pupils from the arid and semi-arid regions of Isiolo, Meru, and Laikipia counties have participated in a training program aimed at enhancing food security through modern agricultural techniques.
Organized by the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in partnership with various organizations, the program provided hands-on instruction in digital literacy and contemporary farming methods designed to combat food insecurity.
Experts in agriculture and dairy farming delivered valuable insights on pest and disease management, crop selection, and effective animal husbandry practices suited to the local environment and climate.
Lewa’s Chief Program Officer, John Kinoti, highlighted the pressing need to integrate technology across all agricultural operations.
“We must work together now more than ever to create sustainable food systems that nourish every person on the planet while safeguarding vital resources, such as water. Our commitment lies in supporting the farmers in our region,” he said,
The training encompassed a wide range of subjects, including Conservation Agriculture, Soil Health Management, water conservation strategies, and advanced irrigation techniques like drip irrigation.
Farmers were also trained on using organic and inorganic fertilizers, hybrid seeds, and drought-resistant crop varieties, all within the framework of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and agroforestry.
During a recent World Food Day celebration at Munanda Kwa Mungania in Meru County, Lawrence Rungu, the community development program manager at Lewa, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address climate change and food insecurity while also helping individual farmers improve their livelihoods.
Over 30 industry stakeholders showcased various climate-smart technologies during the event.
Rungu noted that demonstration plots established in the region serve as permanent educational resources, illustrating that crops can flourish even in challenging climates.
The conservancy is also engaged in numerous community programs, including 17 water projects and women’s micro-enterprise initiatives, which provide empowerment loans.
Currently, the conservancy operates a single borehole for multiple demonstration sites, assisting around 70 local farmers.
Purity Kinoti reported that more than 270 students present at the event expressed their enthusiasm for practical learning experiences that connected classroom theories to real agricultural applications.
Peter Muriuki, a farmer applauded the Lewa Conservancy for its free training programs, stating, “I’ve learned effective methods for growing onions and raising cattle. Although my area faces harsh conditions, I’ve seen crops thrive in demonstration plots. The education I received on biogas technology will help reduce reliance on firewood, preserving our environment.”
Laikipia farmer Emily Giisho echoed similar sentiments, sharing her newfound knowledge on safe chemical application and environmental stewardship.
“Thanks to Lewa, we have a free veterinary doctor and educational support for our children. The conservancy has played an essential role in alleviating poverty and improving literacy in our community,” she said
