West Pokot Launches Agro-Ecology Policy to Strengthen Sustainable Farming and Climate Resilience
West Pokot Launches Agro-Ecology Policy to Strengthen Sustainable Farming and Climate Resilience
In a landmark step toward environmental sustainability and food security, West Pokot County has officially launched a forward-thinking Agro-ecology Policy aimed at reshaping the region’s farming landscape.The policy, unveiled during a county-wide event attended by agricultural experts, technocrats, and community leaders, provides a comprehensive roadmap for promoting ecological farming practices, boosting farmer innovation, and enhancing resilience in the face of climate change.
A Farmer-Led Vision for Sustainable Agriculture
Speaking at the launch, Wilfred Longronyang, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, emphasized the policy’s commitment to indigenous knowledge, soil regeneration, biodiversity conservation, and farmer-driven innovation.“This policy is a farmer-led roadmap,” Longronyang stated. “It focuses on restoring soil health, regenerating ecosystems, and reducing dependence on synthetic chemicals, while building resilience and food sovereignty for our people.”
The policy is the result of extensive consultation with local farmers and stakeholders and was developed with technical input from the Biodiversity and Biosafety Association of Kenya (BIBA-Kenya) and Greenpeace Africa.
Confronting Agricultural Challenges with Innovation
Longronyang acknowledged the region’s ongoing challenges—land fragmentation, declining yields, climate variability, post-harvest losses, and market access barriers—noting that the new framework is meant to enhance existing traditional practices, not replace them.He highlighted that cross-departmental collaboration will be key to ensuring the policy’s success, encouraging a holistic, inclusive approach to agriculture, conservation, and innovation.
Empowering Farmers and Protecting Ecosystems
Ann Maina, National Coordinator for BIBA-Kenya, praised the policy’s emphasis on animal and soil health, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and social justice.“Agro-ecology is not just about farming—it’s about transforming systems,” she said. “It addresses the root causes of agricultural and environmental challenges while respecting local communities and their knowledge.”
Maina also noted efforts among pastoralist communities to reduce conflicts and migration driven by climate stress, reinforcing the importance of agro-ecological methods in building peace and sustainability.
A Greener Future for West Pokot
The launch of this policy marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s push toward climate-resilient, farmer-centered food systems. It sends a strong message that West Pokot is committed to protecting both people and the planet, aligning with national and global goals on environmental sustainability.With support from stakeholders, NGOs, and local communities, the Agro-ecology Policy is set to serve as a model for other counties in Kenya and beyond, proving that sustainable agriculture is not just possible—it’s essential.
