In an inspiring gathering of minds and a celebration of sustainable farming practices, Practical Action, in collaboration with partners, orchestrated the Regenerative Agriculture Conference in Kisumu. This event served as a dynamic platform for participants to exchange knowledge, insights, and hands-on experiences in the realm of regenerative agriculture—a transformative approach that harnesses natural methods to enhance both productivity and the ecological vitality of our soils and biodiversity.
Running from September 11th to 13th, 2023, the conference catalyzed essential dialogues on policies, markets, youth engagement, and research related to the burgeoning field of regenerative farming.
The Power of Shared Learning
Susan Maina, Country Director at Practical Action Kenya, underscored the conference’s pivotal role in fostering an environment of shared learning and collaborative action in implementing regenerative agriculture programs. Participants engaged in frank discussions about what works, what doesn’t, and the strategic steps required to advance this transformative agricultural approach.
Maina emphasized that this conference arrives at a critical juncture when regenerative agriculture is seen as an antidote to the adverse environmental, economic, and social consequences of intensive farming practices. Moreover, it aligns with the surging consumer demand for healthy and safe food options. By enacting systemic changes in areas such as markets, policy, and research, regenerative agriculture is poised to not only thrive but also redefine the future of sustainable food production.
A Confluence of Diverse Stakeholders
The event served as a vibrant convergence point for a diverse array of stakeholders, including county governments, Non-Governmental Organizations, donors, researchers, private sector representatives, and dynamic young agripreneurs. Through a series of plenary and panel discussions, high-level speeches, exhibitions, presentations, and enlightening field visits to local farmers practicing regenerative agriculture in Kisumu and Homa Bay Counties, the conference brought forth a holistic perspective on the regenerative agriculture landscape.
Unveiling the Agroecology Toolkit
One of the conference’s significant highlights was the official launch of the Agroecology Toolkit—an invaluable knowledge resource designed to offer technical guidance on regenerative agriculture methods. This toolkit will serve as an indispensable asset for farmers, extension workers, and all those with a vested interest in sustainable farming practices. Developed in collaboration with the Agroecology Stakeholders’ Network (AESTANET), the toolkit represents a collaborative effort aimed at democratizing regenerative agriculture knowledge and practices.
Charting the Future: A Call to Action
The conference concluded on a resounding note of action, with a collective Call to Action echoing through the corridors. This rallying cry aims to infuse fresh momentum into the ongoing efforts to scale up regenerative agriculture across the region. It is a testament to the commitment and dedication of all those involved in the pursuit of a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.
Transforming Lives through Regenerative Agriculture
During the conference, Practical Action shared remarkable insights and achievements stemming from its Transforming Rural Economies and Youth Livelihoods (TREYL) project. Supported by the IKEA Foundation, this ambitious five-year initiative has been nurturing regenerative agriculture and agribusinesses among 6,000 young people in Kisumu and Homa Bay Counties since 2019. The ultimate goal? Impacting the lives of 80,000 young individuals.
TREYL has already left a tangible mark, contributing to increased incomes for young agripreneurs, improved soil health, and the empowerment of women. While regenerative agriculture is emerging as a compelling and economically competitive alternative to conventional production systems, its adoption in Kenya remains a work in progress. Traditionally rooted regenerative practices have faced a gradual decline with the expansion of intensive agriculture, making initiatives like this conference all the more vital.
In the heart of Kisumu, the Regenerative Agriculture Conference stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. As the lessons learned and connections made during this event continue to ripple through communities and farms, the future of agriculture in the region looks brighter than ever. Stay tuned as regenerative agriculture gains momentum, nurturing our soils, our livelihoods, and our planet.
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