Kirinyaga County has taken a bold step towards sustainable agriculture by hosting its first-ever agroecology symposium, a major event aimed at promoting organic farming practices to improve public health and protect the environment.

The two-day forum, held at Kirinyaga University in Kutus, brought together over 700 participants, including farmers, agronomists, researchers, suppliers, and buyers. The event focused on reducing the use of synthetic agrochemicals and encouraging organic food production for health and commercial gains.

Governor Anne Waiguru reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to driving a shift in agricultural practices, citing the need to address the growing health risks associated with chemical-intensive farming.

"We are empowering our farmers with training in organic farming techniques as part of our efforts to reduce the dependence on chemical inputs. This is not just about food production it’s about public health and environmental stewardship,” said Waiguru.

The county is targeting horticulture producers—particularly those growing tomatoes, French beans, and rice—through training programmes that focus on soil health, eco-friendly pest control, and better market access. Farmers are now grouped into 14 cooperatives to strengthen their bargaining power and improve access to financing.

Agriculture Executive John Gachara described the symposium as a turning point in the county’s transition towards environmentally friendly agriculture.

“This event marks a turning point. We are determined to steer our farmers away from harmful chemical-based practices and towards sustainable, organic alternatives that are better for people and the planet,” said Gachara.

He warned of the health dangers posed by the misuse of pesticides, linking them to the rise of lifestyle diseases. He said the county is promoting biodegradable and environmentally safe solutions to protect both consumers and producers.

The symposium was co-organised with the Kenya Organic Agriculture Network (KOAN). KOAN’s manager Austace Kiarie said the event offered a meaningful opportunity for farmers and stakeholders to share ideas on sustainable practices such as improving soil fertility and non-toxic pest management.

“We’re glad to work alongside Kirinyaga County in advancing organic farming. Farmers had the opportunity to learn and innovate around safer food production systems,” he said.

Farming groups across the region were also represented. Alex Muriithi, founder of the Super Ideal Farming Group, said his team has been training farmers to use foliar fertilisers made from locally available organic materials.

“These products reduce disease and are safer for human consumption. They also cut down production costs,” Muriithi added.

Gideon Moya, an agroecology expert from Biba Kenya, praised the county for its leadership in promoting organic farming. He noted that his organisation had supported 10 farmer groups from different parts of the country to attend the event.

“Through our ‘Kula Kienyeji’ campaign, we promote indigenous crops and discourage harmful chemical use. Agroecology is key in climate resilience and disease prevention,” he said.

Farmers also shared personal accounts of the changes they have experienced through organic farming. Jane Muchiri, a member of Mountain Green Group, said switching to organic practices helped her revive the health of her soil and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

“The chemicals we used were destroying beneficial soil organisms and ultimately harming us through food. That’s why we’re seeing more diseases,” she explained.

The symposium is part of Kirinyaga County’s broader strategy to build a farming culture that is environmentally responsible and health-conscious, with long-term benefits for future generations.