Explainer: How Nakuru's agroecology policy aims to impact county's food security

Nakuru County is in the final stages of developing an Agroecology Policy to respond to growing pressures on agriculture and the wider food system. 

‎‎Although the county remains one of Kenya’s leading food baskets, many farmers are increasingly experiencing declining yields, rising production costs, and greater vulnerability to climate shocks. 

‎‎In addition, soil fertility continues to drop in several farming zones, water sources are shrinking, and unsustainable land use is accelerating biodiversity loss.

As a result, food production is becoming less predictable and household food and nutrition security is weakening.

‎‎Consequently, the policy is designed to offer long-term solutions by guiding the county toward agroecology.

Agroecology promotes farming practices that restore soil health, conserve water, enhance natural pest control, and protect local biodiversity. 

‎‎Through techniques such as composting, crop rotation, intercropping, agroforestry, and organic soil enrichment, farmers can reduce their dependence on chemical inputs. 

‎‎This shift makes farming both more affordable and more environmentally friendly. For farmers who struggle with dependency on synthetic fertilizers, this approach offers a sustainable path that strengthens productivity without degrading natural resources.

‎Furthermore, the Agroecology Policy will help farmers adapt to climate change. By improving soil structure and increasing water retention, agroecological systems make farms more resilient during droughts, heavy rains, and temperature fluctuations.

This resilience is essential in a county where rainfall patterns have become increasingly unpredictable.

‎Equally important, the policy will help emphasize social and economic inclusion.

It recognizes that women, youth, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities play critical roles in agriculture yet often face barriers to training, information, and markets. 

‎Therefore, it proposes expanded extension services, stronger farmer field schools, support for producer groups, and more opportunities for value addition and local marketing.

‎Overall, this is a step toward transforming food and health through agroecology and the legal framework will ensure sustained promotion of sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural systems in the county.