This archive report was first published on 8 July 2020.
Magdalene Wanja here, and today we're shining the spotlight on Sylvia Miloyo, a dedicated organic farmer who's making waves in the industry.
With a background in community development and a diploma in Business Management, Sylvia started farming as soon as she completed her undergraduate studies. However, she soon realized that her initial love for farming came with a price – the use of chemical-based pesticides and fertilizers.
Four years into her venture, Sylvia had read extensively about the negative effects of these chemical-based farming inputs and vowed to find a solution. This prompted her to transform her farm into an organic set-up, using her savings to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge.
"As of acquiring skills, I just practiced, did a lot of reading and attended short trainings at Real IPM in Thika," Sylvia shared, highlighting her dedication to learning and growth.
Organic farming, Sylvia explained, involves growing a variety of crops, mainly vegetables, and never practicing mono-cropping. "In organic farming, you never really mono crop. I have never practiced mono cropping but prefer to grow at least 15 to 20 types of vegetables at every one point," she said.
With two farms in Limuru (five acres) and Mai Mahiu (10 acres), Sylvia practices organic farming, which she believes is healthy for humans and animals alike. Since adopting this method, she's attracted clients who prioritize their health and want to consume safe products.
According to the White Paper Report on Pesticide use in Kenya, pesticides have severe consequences on the environment and human health. "Many pesticides are either acutely toxic, have long-term toxic effects, are endocrine disrupters (acting on the hormone system), are toxic to different wildlife species or are known to cause a high incidence of severe or irreversible adverse effects," the report reads.
Ms. Miloyo sells her produce mainly through home delivery, catering to middle-class working people with prices similar to conventional farming. However, she noted that converting to organic farming takes at least three to four years and comes with challenges like battling pests and diseases.
"Market can be an issue for organic suppliers because the populace are not well educated on the benefits of organic farming," Sylvia acknowledged, highlighting the need for education and awareness.
