Climate smart farming offers Isiolo farmers a solution to water and space challenges

For years, vegetable farming in Isiolo has largely been associated with access to land and reliable water, two resources that many households can scarcely afford.

In a county where water is limited, rainfall is increasingly unpredictable and prolonged dry spells are becoming a major concern, many residents who would otherwise grow vegetables at home have been forced to depend on markets for fresh produce.

But a new approach to agriculture is beginning to challenge that reality.

Agricultural experts say households do not necessarily need large farms or abundant water to produce nutritious vegetables. With the right technology and innovative use of available resources, even a small compound, balcony or unused corner of a homestead can be transformed into a productive kitchen garden.

According to a water and agricultural expert, Eng. Grace Mativo, climate-smart agriculture offers one of the practical solutions to the challenges facing smallholder farmers in Isiolo.

Mativo says farmers can combine organic manure with soil and grow vegetables in locally available containers, including plastic containers and discarded vehicle tyres.

The approach allows households to make maximum use of limited spaces while reducing the amount of water required compared with conventional farming.