Monocultures, indiscriminate use of agricultural inputs and climate change have greatly depleted the soils of these three areas, ringing an alarm bell for local farmers to look to biodiversity and nature-positive practices to survive and adapt.
Monocultures, indiscriminate use of agricultural inputs and climate change have greatly depleted the soils of these three areas, ringing an alarm bell for local farmers to look to biodiversity and nature-positive practices to survive and adapt.
One of the main aspects that the initiative promotes in the region is the creation of aggregate farms which see farmers pooling land and resources and moving in unison to improve practices across the community.
One of the main aspects that the initiative promotes in the region is the creation of aggregate farms which see farmers pooling land and resources and moving in unison to improve practices across the community.
Through the creation of private or community nurseries and seedling distribution events, farmers are encouraged to plant trees on their farms and integrate them into their agricultural practices. A key role is played by the MyFarmTree app which provides economic incentives for planting trees.
Through the creation of private or community nurseries and seedling distribution events, farmers are encouraged to plant trees on their farms and integrate them into their agricultural practices. A key role is played by the MyFarmTree app which provides economic incentives for planting trees.
Strengthening local and informal seed systems is one of the initiative's main workstreams. The creation of community seed banks and the training of farmers, especially women, in managing local biodiversity is a fundamental step on the road towards a nature-positive food system.
Strengthening local and informal seed systems is one of the initiative's main workstreams. The creation of community seed banks and the training of farmers, especially women, in managing local biodiversity is a fundamental step on the road towards a nature-positive food system.
With agrobiodiversity in the fields and seeds in the local seed banks, diversity also returns to the tables with the recovery of traditional diets that use nutrient dense leafy greens, legumes and grains that support food security and sovereignty.
With agrobiodiversity in the fields and seeds in the local seed banks, diversity also returns to the tables with the recovery of traditional diets that use nutrient dense leafy greens, legumes and grains that support food security and sovereignty.

Kisumu, Vihiga, Siaya

Kenya

In Kisumu, Vihiga and Siaya, farmers are facing a common challenge: fragmented and degraded land. The solutions promoted by CGIAR? Aggregating small plots into larger, community-managed farms and lands, and supporting restoration activities with technology.

This collaborative effort aims to restore landscapes, diversify production, and benefit from economies of scale. In this context, the MyFarmTrees app plays a pivotal role in restoring landscapes and enhancing productivity on aggregated farms through native tree integration and community engagement.

The initiative also addressed rural waste management by bringing together circular economy ventures and women-led recycling businesses. This not only improved waste management practices but also unlocked significant economic potential.

 

Contact: Dr. Carlo Fadda, Nature Positive Solutions Initiative Coordinator, c.fadda(at)cgiar.org

Community

Operating Location: Kisumu, Vihiga and Siaya
Traditional Name: Kisumo (derived from the Luo word “sumo,” which means a place where people meet to barter); Sega or Sega Siaya; Maseno.
Area of Operation: Kisumu 2,085 Km2, Siaya 2,530 Km2,  Vihiga 860 km2
Coordinates: 0.0917° S, 34.7680° E
Communities: Kisumu: large commercial farmers; Siaya and Vihiga: Small scale farmers

Description of the Area: Kisumu, Siaya, and Vihiga in Kenya are located near Lake Victoria, enjoy a favorable climate that supports the cultivation of various crops, including maize, tea, sugarcane, and vegetables. The fertile soils and ample rainfall make these areas highly productive agricultural zones.

  • Kisumu: Fertile land by Lake Victoria, vibrant agriculture, bustling city life, rich cultural heritage, significant trade hub.
  • Siaya: Lush farmlands, diverse ecosystems, strong fishing traditions, historical Luo communities, scenic landscapes, thriving local markets.
  • Vihiga: Hilly terrain, tea and vegetable farming, dense population, vibrant Maragoli culture and traditions, notable for community cooperatives.

Unlike most parts of Kisumu County, lower Nyando receives low rainfall and has increased incidences of drought. Climate change has worsened the situation, contributing to low agricultural productivity and food insecurity.

Challenges

Soil Fertility (Decreased)

Erratic Rainfall

Seed Systems

Nutrition Insecurity

Crop Yield (Decreasing)

Land Degradation

Project Goals

Soil degradation due to overuse, deforestation, and unsustainable farming practices threaten the long-term productivity of the land of these three regions. Climate change exacerbates these issues, leading to unpredictable weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and flooding. These challenges jeopardize food security and the livelihoods of local farmers. Additionally, the traditional isolation of farmers, who are not used to collaborating and face their common challenges individually, makes them more vulnerable to climatic and economic shocks.

Here the initiative is promoting Nature-Positive farming practices inspired from permaculture and agroecology and support farmers in putting resources and knowledge together so that unity could be strength.

Air

The project in Kisumu, Siaya and Vihiga promotes permaculture design and tree nurseries to enhance air quality. By increasing vegetation cover, these practices help absorb pollutants, provide oxygen, and create healthier living conditions. This approach not only benefits the environment but also improves the overall well-being of the community.

Water

Implementing agroecology and appropriate technology practices aims to improve water management in this area. These practices focus on sustainable water use and conservation techniques, ensuring that water resources are efficiently utilized and preserved. This is vital for farming activities and the community’s access to clean and reliable water sources.

Soil

The initiative conducts soil analysis and promotes the use of organic fertilizers to restore and maintain soil health. These practices enhance soil fertility, prevent erosion, and ensure sustainable agricultural productivity. Healthy soil is fundamental for long-term food security and environmental sustainability in Kisumu, Vihiga and Siaya.

Biodiversity

By supporting community seed banks and promoting agrobiodiversity, the project aims to preserve local crop varieties and protect ecosystems. This approach maintains a diverse and resilient agricultural landscape, which is crucial for food security, ecological balance, and the preservation of traditional farming knowledge.

Equity

The initiative organizes comprehensive farmers’ training and supports women self-help groups, empowering communities with essential knowledge and resources. These efforts promote food sovereignty, sustainable livelihoods, and gender equality. Empowered farmers and communities are better equipped to adopt and maintain sustainable agricultural practices.

Carbon

Utilizing carbon credits and briquette technology, the initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions in the region. These practices foster a low-carbon economy by promoting cleaner energy alternatives and enhancing carbon sequestration. Additionally, with the My Farm Trees app the initiative creates incentives for farmers to plant trees.

Stakeholders

The CGIAR Initiative on Nature-Positive Solutions carries out its activities in partnership with numerous international and local organizations in order to leverage collaboration and the sharing of knowledge and skills and achieve the maximum possible impact. In each region several CG centers take part in the activities by contributing their expertise for the success of the entire initiative.

CG CENTERS

PARTNERS

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The Nature-Positive Solutions platform is produced by The Lexicon with support from CGIAR, the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, IWMI, IFPRI and CIP. Nature-Positive Solutions balance the needs of people and the planet, ensuring long-term ecological benefits, food security and livelihoods.

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