In the semi-arid landscapes of Makueni County, Kenya, smallholder farmers are embracing regenerative agriculture (RA) as a pathway to resilient, productive, and sustainable farming. This innovative approach maximizes natural resource use, reduces reliance on synthetic inputs, and strengthens the long-term health of soil and crops. While RA requires more initial effort compared to conventional practices, its benefits; higher yields, improved livelihoods, and environmental sustainability are transformative.
Enviu Agrifood has been at the forefront of this shift, applying a market-driven, systems-focused approach to support farmers in adopting regenerative practices. Building on years of experience eliminating post-harvest losses through ventures like SokoFresh and Shambani Pro, Enviu has extended its work to include RA, helping farmers access better markets, increase incomes, and adopt practices that restore the land. Over 12,000+ farmers have already benefited from improved storage and value-addition solutions, while more than 1,000 in Makueni are now actively implementing regenerative methods.
The success in Makueni stems from a deliberate, systematic approach. By analyzing local challenges, identifying root causes, and designing context-specific business models, Enviu ensures lasting impact. The county’s arid conditions, supportive local government, and strong network of implementation partners have created an enabling environment for innovation. As Christine Mutisya, Programme Manager at Enviu Agrifood, notes, “Through this programme, farmers here are finding new hope for resilient and productive farming systems.” Enviu’s work in Makueni demonstrates that sustainable food systems are achievable when market-driven solutions, partnerships, and local engagement come together.
The story of Makueni’s regenerative agriculture journey, and how Enviu is supporting smallholder farmers to scale sustainable farming, has been featured by Farmers Review Africa.
Read the full article here to explore the program’s insights, successes, and lessons for resilient food systems.
