Change projects in Kenya

The projects connected to the hub in Kenya aim to build on the successes of three AgriFoSe2030 sub-projects—focusing on food system governance, extension services, and rangeland management—by reinforcing the essential link between research, policy, and practice. They recognise that sustainable food systems require a supportive policy environment, effective extension structures, and a responsive research ecosystem.

Lessons from the previous phases underscore the importance of strong institutional leadership, collaboration among local researchers, academic linkages, and the gradual transfer of programme ownership to local institutions.

In this new phase, the projects expect to strengthen research capacity, enhance the policy impact of scientific evidence, and establish robust, sustainable knowledge networks. Ultimately, it aims to develop a critical mass of scientists who can inform policy and practice to support resilient food systems tailored to the needs of smallholder farmers.

Change projects within the Kenya-hub:

Food systems governance in Kenya:
The project will seek to consolidate and build on the successes of previous work by three sub-projects in the AgriFose2030 phase II: Governance of food systems for improved food and nutrition; Extension service structures and functions and; Transformative Rangeland Management Practices project (on ecological restoration). The project linkages are illustrated in Figure 1. In order to achieve resilient and sustainable food systems, extension service structures have to be effective in disseminating agricultural information and technologies to farmers. There is a need for an effective feedback mechanism facilitated by agricultural extension to link farmers and researchers. Provision of appropriate technologies and information to farmers will lead to sustainable farming practices and ecological sustainability. For food systems to be effective, there needs to be a supportive policy environment and a research ecosystem that address farmers’ challenges.

Read an interview with hub-leader Cecilia Onyango here:

Cecilia M. Onyango, Kenya

Sustainable and resilient food systems for improved food security