Strengthening governance of food and extension systems in Kenya

Food systems in Kenya face multifaceted challenges, including climate change impacts, degradation of ecosystems, unsustainable agricultural practices, low agricultural productivity, and inefficiencies in the agricultural extension system. Addressing these challenges requires robust governance frameworks that foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and effective policy implementation. This project aimed at enhancing governance of food and extension systems for improved agricultural resilience and ecosystem sustainability in Kenya. It aims at strengthening food system governance, extension systems, and strengthening engagement with county governments of Embu and Kisumu, with a focus on food systems resilience and ecosystem sustainability

Main challenges

The very nature of the project, that is, engagement with key actors like agricultural extension personnel and county policy makers present unique challenges. For instance, while collaborating, at times strict government protocol have to be observed which lead to cumbersomeness in executing actions and starting meetings. In particular, it is expected that the senior most county official should give clearance for starting meetings – like opening workshops. In the event that they are late, this might lead to significant delays in the day’s program. 

Additionally, in an effort to strengthen extension systems through capacity building, various extension personnel were trained on various aspects that they highlighted as the main capacity gaps. We organized a joint training for extension personnel in charge of crops, livestock, fisheries, and veterinary officers. It was noticed that some personnel lost interest during training of food system aspects not directly falling within their spheres of work. Another challenge was in the timing of the activities. During the month of June, most agricultural personnel are engaged in organizing agriculture show fairs, thus, some were not fully engaged with project activities.

Outcomes from the project

Through our efforts and support in strengthening food system governance and extension structures, there are several noticeable outcomes. The agricultural personnel are now more knowledgeable on food system aspects such as food safety, crops and livestock management. 

Additionally, the project has facilitated the review of the Kisumu Food System Strategy 2022-2027. The collaboration between the county staff and the project team yielded a more refined review of the strategy which could be used to write the next Food System Strategy for Kisumu County. The county agricultural extension staff appreciated the effort and support from AgriFoSe2030 and the skills for reviewing policy documents. 

Future impacts

Before the project ends, we want to Embu and Kisumu counties being food and nutrition secure while at the same time protecting the environment. A strengthened food system governance and extension structures will ensure that better policies are passed, agricultural productivity increases and producers become more aware on the importance of ecosystem conservation.

The youth form the bulk of the population in Kenya, yet most are unemployed. In the third phase of AgriFoSe2030, we envision a project where we will engage youth groups and elevate them through agriculture production, value addition, and waste management. The project will also be designed in such a way that we engage public schools in an effort to transform Kenya’s food system.

Contact details: 

Dr. Samuel Onyango Omondi
Maseno University, Kenya
E-mail: onyisam316@yahoo.com