This archive report was first published on 5 November 2019.
Kenya's population is expected to increase significantly when the results of this year's census are released, putting additional pressure on the country's already struggling soils.
Recent research has shown that Kenya's soils are too acidic for growing crops, posing a threat to national food security. The situation is urgent, and a sustainable solution is needed to prevent further damage.
The high acidity of the soils is a result of the continuous use of inorganic fertilizers in farms without prior and effective soil testing. This has led to a decline in soil health, making it difficult for crops to grow.
Patricia M. Kombo, founder of Patree Initiative in Makueni, emphasizes the need for climate-smart agricultural techniques to restore arable land and improve soil structure.
Organic farming is a viable alternative to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can help conserve water and reduce subsurface acidity. This method of farming also produces healthy food with more natural nutrients that help protect body cells.
Encouraging the use of kitchen gardens and water pans can also help supplement food production and reduce the impact of climate change.
As Patricia M. Kombo notes, 'We can no longer just sit and pretend that the world is not dying. It is our responsibility to salvage the situation. Let us save the earth together. Let us fight climate change and its effects.'
