According to the World Bank, to attain global development goals, it is essential to have nourishing, sustainable, and comprehensive food systems. Agriculture development is an influential means to eradicate poverty, enhance collective well-being and cater to a growing population. Growing the agricultural sector is very effective in raising incomes amongst the poorest compared to other sectors, in addition to contributing to economic growth.

Unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic, and other factors such as the past extreme weather, increased pests and disease, and conflicts are causing disruptions to food systems, leading to increased food prices and hunger. Moreover, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia has intensified the global food crisis causing millions of people to fall into extreme poverty. This highlights the urgent need to tackle these issues and introduce strategies that safeguard and enhance food systems, guaranteeing that everyone has access to affordable and nutritious food.

Through the implementation of policies and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture, Kenya is making considerable strides toward achieving its development objectives of eradicating extreme poverty, promoting shared prosperity, and feeding the growing population. Despite the numerous shocks such as Covid-19-related disruptions, extreme weather patterns, increased and the emergence of new pests and diseases that affect food systems, the government has endeavours to promote sustainable agriculture and have the capacity to drive growth, reduce poverty and enhance food security in the country.

Some of the programmes and policies that the government and farmers have adopted and implemented include:

1. The National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP), which aims to:

o   Enhance Productivity

o   Increase market access

o   Improve the resilience of smallholder farmers

1. The National Agricultural Information System. This provides farmers with timely weather patterns, crop management, and market prices.
2. Adoption of agroecological farming practices by farmers. These practices involve the use of nature-based and minimisation of the use of synthetic inputs such as fertiliser solutions, an approach that promotes soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
3. Urban farming is another positive development that is on the rise in Kenya. It involves the growing and raising of livestock in urban areas. This has helped to reduce food waste and increase food access in cities.
4. Other practices include sustainable irrigation within counties, conservation agriculture, and agroforestry.

So how can organisations and individuals contribute to a greener future through sustainable agriculture?

1. Organisations can contribute by investing in research and development of sustainable agriculture. Practices that can improve crop yields, and nutrition while minimising environmental degradation, which in extension helps farmers to adopt sustainable practices and increase their income.  
2. Organisations can also partner with smallholder farmers by providing them with access to markets, financing, and capacity building on sustainable farming practices.
3. Individuals can support farmers by purchasing locally grown organic produce, this will encourage farmers to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their reliance on harmful unauthorised chemicals.
4. They also should adopt sustainable practices in their own homes such as composting.
5. Individuals can also support advocacy efforts for policies that support and promote sustainable agricultural practices at the county and national levels.
6. NGOs can take on the responsibility of working with local communities to promote sustainable agriculture and provide training on effective techniques.
7. Individuals can also contribute by reducing food waste through activities such as meal planning, supporting food banks, etc.

Sustainable agriculture in Kenya is gaining momentum, and with continued government support and organisations, and individuals working together, it can help to revolutionise food security. Sustainable agriculture is vital in achieving food security, preserving the environment, and reducing poverty. Through nature-based solutions, innovative farming techniques, and stakeholders collaborating, then we progressively achieve a healthy planet for all.