#agroforestry in Kenya

[farmerstrend]

1,300 Kenyan Farmers Graduate After Four Years of First-of-its-Kind Sustainable Agroforestry and Climate Action Training Program

Discover how over 1,300 farmers in Homa Bay, Kenya, are transforming their livelihoods and restoring the environment through Trees for the Future’s Forest Garden Program, a sustainable agroforestry initiative. Learn how agroforestry techniques like composting, crop rotation, and tree planting are empowering farmers in Kenya to combat climate change, increase food security, and boost…

[wachinyeya]

Sugarcane is a widely grown crop in the Nile Basin, but its destructive effects on soils, water resources and biodiversity have become increasingly apparent.

As the thirsty crop draws down water resources, aquatic species like the critically endangered Nubian flapshell turtle suffer a loss of habitat, forage and nesting sites.

In an effort to revive soils, diversify diets and incomes, and boost water levels that many animals rely on, communities are implementing agroforestry projects in lieu of monocultures.

The resulting “food forests” attract an array of wildlife while refilling wetlands and river systems where the culturally important flapshell turtles swim.

[boy-cow]

Every year, “millions of dollars” are spent on reforesting landscapes, according to Lalisa Duguma of World Agroforestry, an international research agency in Nairobi, Kenya. Yet “there are few success stories.” Typically only a minority of seedlings survive, he says, because the wrong trees are planted in the wrong places, and many are left untended, in part because ownership and management of trees is not handed over to local communities.

this article had me thinking about those "carbon offset" credits you can buy from airlines that i believe normally go into tree planting initiatives like this.

good to know about the legitimacy of things like this, it's a reminder that "carbon offsetting" can't actually replace putting less carbon into the air.

[thebiodiversitybridge]

For One Former Logging Company, Nature’s Green is Gold in East Africa

In East Africa, a remarkable transformation is taking place as former logging companies shift their focus from deforestation to reforestation and sustainable forestry. This change is not only benefiting the environment but also creating new economic opportunities for local communities. Companies that once profited from cutting down forests are now making money by planting trees and restoring degraded landscapes.

As concerns about climate change and biodiversity loss grow, many investors and businesses in East Africa are turning to eco-friendly solutions. A prime example is Kijani Forestry, a company in Uganda that has planted over 17 million trees since 2019. Instead of just selling timber, Kijani works with smallholder farmers, helping them grow trees that provide a sustainable income while restoring degraded land. Similarly, the Hongera Reforestation Project in Kenya aims to plant over 10 million trees in seven years, capturing an estimated 340,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually. These efforts contribute to carbon offsetting, which allows businesses to reduce their carbon footprint while supporting local forests.

Instead of relying on deforestation, former logging businesses are now making money through carbon credits, which they sell to organizations aiming to reduce their carbon emissions. Restored forests attract tourists who want to experience nature, bringing income to local communities through eco-tourism. Companies are adopting selective logging, where only mature trees are harvested while younger trees are left to grow, ensuring sustainable timber production. Additionally, agroforestry allows farmers to grow crops alongside trees, improving soil fertility and creating additional sources of income.

While the shift to sustainable forestry is promising, challenges remain. Illegal logging, land degradation, and lack of government support can slow progress. However, organizations like the Uganda Timber Growers Association and the National Forest Authority are working to enforce better forest management practices.

With increasing global demand for sustainable products, former logging companies in East Africa are proving that nature’s green is truly gold. By investing in reforestation, promoting biodiversity, and supporting local communities, these businesses are building a profitable and eco-friendly future. The transformation of former logging companies into sustainability leaders is a win-win for both the environment and the economy. By embracing reforestation, carbon trading, and sustainable forestry, East Africa is setting an example for the world.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Varaha, an Indian company developing carbon removal projects in Asia, has secured a multimillion US dollar, multi-carbon pathways, project investment from Conductor Capital, a UK based energy-focused commodities and environmental products investment manager.   The investment will help Varaha expand its carbon projects across regions, reach a larger number of farmers, and provide greater benefits across diverse geographies, primarily in India and Nepal.   Varaha has implemented 14 technology-driven carbon projects in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Kenya. These span regenerative agriculture, afforestation, biochar and enhanced rock weathering. Varaha has transitioned more than 100,000 smallholder farmers to sustainable practices to date, removing more than two million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2e) from the atmosphere. Varaha was the first project developer in India to issue carbon removal credits for biochar under the Puro.Earth registry. In January 2025, Varaha sold 100,000 carbon dioxide removal (CDR) credits to Google, which marked Google’s first-ever large-scale purchase of carbon removal credits in India.Madhur Jain, Co-founder of Varaha, said, “This investment from Conductor Capital is transformative for Varaha. It represents a significant endorsement of our model and the urgent need for sustainable environmental solutions. It enhances the potential impact of Conductor Capital's project investment by providing a clear pathway for scaling up operations and integrating into India's broader carbon reduction strategies. We are excited to lead the way in creating scalable, sustainable solutions that address climate change at its core, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations."   Marcello Romano, Chief Investment Officer of Conductor Capital, said, "We are excited to support Varaha’s innovative approach to carbon project development. Our investment reflects our commitment to backing solutions that offer substantial environmental and social benefits, and Varaha’s tech-driven platform coupled with its rigorous implementation expertise - stands out in this regard."   Varaha is a nature-based carbon removal company founded in 2022. Varaha’s mission is to mitigate the quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions that stem from agriculture and food systems by permanently removing carbon from the atmosphere. Varaha has developed projects in four countries, spanning regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, biochar and enhanced rock weathering. These projects simultaneously improve farmer livelihoods, increase climate resilience, and promote biodiversity. Varaha is backed by RTP Global, Omnivore, AgFunder, Artemeter by DRW, Norinchukin Bank, IMC Ventures, Orios, Theia Ventures and Better Capital.To learn more, visit www.varaha.earth.   About Conductor Capital Conductor Capital, founded in 2022, is an investment manager that is active in global commodity markets key to the energy transition. Conductor Capital is an active investor across projects that deliver meaningful climate impact by leveraging technology-based and nature-based pathways. Our focus is not only on environmental sustainability but also fostering societal co-benefits and stimulating economic development in the world’s most vulnerable communities.   To learn more, visit www.conductorcapital.co.uk. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window,document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '311356416665414'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Varaha, an Indian company developing carbon removal projects in Asia, has secured a multimillion US dollar, multi-carbon pathways, project investment from Conductor Capital, a UK based energy-focused commodities and environmental products investment manager.   The investment will help Varaha expand its carbon projects across regions, reach a larger number of farmers, and provide greater benefits across diverse geographies, primarily in India and Nepal.   Varaha has implemented 14 technology-driven carbon projects in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Kenya. These span regenerative agriculture, afforestation, biochar and enhanced rock weathering. Varaha has transitioned more than 100,000 smallholder farmers to sustainable practices to date, removing more than two million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2e) from the atmosphere. Varaha was the first project developer in India to issue carbon removal credits for biochar under the Puro.Earth registry. In January 2025, Varaha sold 100,000 carbon dioxide removal (CDR) credits to Google, which marked Google’s first-ever large-scale purchase of carbon removal credits in India.Madhur Jain, Co-founder of Varaha, said, “This investment from Conductor Capital is transformative for Varaha. It represents a significant endorsement of our model and the urgent need for sustainable environmental solutions. It enhances the potential impact of Conductor Capital's project investment by providing a clear pathway for scaling up operations and integrating into India's broader carbon reduction strategies. We are excited to lead the way in creating scalable, sustainable solutions that address climate change at its core, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations."   Marcello Romano, Chief Investment Officer of Conductor Capital, said, "We are excited to support Varaha’s innovative approach to carbon project development. Our investment reflects our commitment to backing solutions that offer substantial environmental and social benefits, and Varaha’s tech-driven platform coupled with its rigorous implementation expertise - stands out in this regard."   Varaha is a nature-based carbon removal company founded in 2022. Varaha’s mission is to mitigate the quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions that stem from agriculture and food systems by permanently removing carbon from the atmosphere. Varaha has developed projects in four countries, spanning regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, biochar and enhanced rock weathering. These projects simultaneously improve farmer livelihoods, increase climate resilience, and promote biodiversity. Varaha is backed by RTP Global, Omnivore, AgFunder, Artemeter by DRW, Norinchukin Bank, IMC Ventures, Orios, Theia Ventures and Better Capital.To learn more, visit www.varaha.earth.   About Conductor Capital Conductor Capital, founded in 2022, is an investment manager that is active in global commodity markets key to the energy transition. Conductor Capital is an active investor across projects that deliver meaningful climate impact by leveraging technology-based and nature-based pathways. Our focus is not only on environmental sustainability but also fostering societal co-benefits and stimulating economic development in the world’s most vulnerable communities.   To learn more, visit www.conductorcapital.co.uk. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window,document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '311356416665414'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); [ad_2] Source link

[supplementsworld]

Famine Fighter Reviews – Is It Safe? Shocking Customer Complaints Revealed!

Florida, USA (25 Dec 2025): — In a world of abundance, the shadow of famine continues to loom over millions, disrupting lives and destabilizing communities. Yet, amidst this grim reality, innovative solutions and courageous efforts shine through, offering hope and resilience. The concept of the “Famine Fighter” encapsulates the global drive to combat hunger through technology, community empowerment, and sustainable practices. → Click Here to Get 50% Discount on First Time Purchase.

Understanding the Challenge

Famine is more than just a lack of food; it is a complex crisis often rooted in a combination of climate change, conflict, economic instability, and systemic inequality. According to the United Nations, over 800 million people face chronic hunger annually, with vulnerable populations in conflict zones and drought-prone regions hit the hardest.

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The impact of famine is devastating: malnutrition weakens immune systems, making populations more susceptible to disease; children miss critical developmental milestones; and economies crumble under the strain of food scarcity. Addressing this issue requires innovative solutions that go beyond short-term relief and tackle the root causes.

The Rise of Famine Fighters

A “Famine Fighter” represents more than a person or an initiative; it is a symbol of collective efforts to eradicate hunger. These efforts span multiple fronts, including:

1. Technological Innovation

Advancements in technology have revolutionized the way we address food insecurity. Satellite imaging and AI-powered analytics help monitor crop health, predict droughts, and optimize resource allocation. Drones are increasingly used to deliver food supplies to remote or conflict-affected areas. Organizations like the World Food Programmed (WFP) leverage blockchain technology to ensure transparency in food distribution.

2. Community-Based Solutions

Empowering local communities to take charge of their food security has proven to be an effective strategy. Initiatives such as community gardens, cooperative farming, and education on sustainable agriculture enable individuals to grow their own food and share resources. These grassroots efforts foster resilience and reduce dependence on external aid.

3. Sustainable Practices

The integration of sustainable agricultural practices is essential to combating famine. Techniques such as crop rotation, agroforestry, and water conservation help maintain soil health and ensure long-term food production. Innovations like climate-resilient crops, which can withstand droughts and floods, are critical in adapting to changing environmental conditions.

4. Humanitarian Aid and Policy Advocacy

Emergency food aid remains a lifeline for millions in crisis situations. However, organizations also advocate for policy changes to address systemic issues contributing to famine. Campaigns for fair trade, climate action, and conflict resolution aim to create a more equitable and stable global food system.

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Inspiring Stories of Impact

Numerous individuals and organizations embody the spirit of the Famine Fighter. For instance, Farm Africa’s work in Ethiopia and Kenya has helped communities adopt sustainable farming techniques, boosting productivity and incomes. Similarly, programs like India’s National Food Security Act provide subsidized food grains to millions, ensuring that no one goes hungry.

In South Sudan, local women-led initiatives are creating food cooperatives that not only feed families but also empower women economically and socially. These stories underscore the transformative potential of targeted, community-driven efforts.

Core Components of the Famine Fighter System

Vertical Farming and Controlled Environments: The system leverages vertical farming methods to maximize crop yields in limited spaces. By growing food in controlled environments, it reduces the dependence on arable land and mitigates risks from unpredictable weather patterns. Crops are cultivated under precise conditions, ensuring optimal growth rates and minimizing resource usage.

Drought-Resistant and High-Yield Crops: Advanced biotechnology plays a crucial role in developing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that thrive in challenging conditions. These crops are designed to require less water, resist pests, and deliver higher nutritional value, making them ideal for regions prone to famine.

Real-Time Data Analytics: The system integrates AI-powered tools to monitor soil health, weather forecasts, and crop performance. This data is used to predict potential shortages and optimize the allocation of resources, ensuring efficient food production and distribution.

Community-Led Distribution Networks: The Famine Fighter emphasizes collaboration with local communities to establish resilient supply chains. By empowering local farmers and distributors, the system ensures food reaches those who need it most, reducing the risk of hoarding or corruption.

Waste Reduction and Circular Economy Practices: The system incorporates innovative methods to minimize food waste. Surplus or unsold produce is repurposed into animal feed, biofuels, or compost, creating a sustainable loop that supports the broader agricultural ecosystem.

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Global Impact and Challenges

The implementation of the Famine Fighter system has the potential to:

Reduce Hunger: By increasing food availability in vulnerable regions, the system can directly address the root causes of famine.

Promote Sustainability: Its resource-efficient practices align with global goals to combat climate change and preserve ecosystems.

Boost Local Economies: By involving local stakeholders, the system creates jobs and fosters economic growth.

However, challenges remain. High initial investment costs, political resistance to GMOs, and the need for extensive training in new technologies are barriers that must be addressed.

The Road Ahead

To fully realize the potential of the Famine Fighter system, collaboration among governments, NGOs, and private enterprises is essential. Investment in education, infrastructure, and policy reforms will pave the way for its widespread adoption.

In an era where the fight against hunger is more pressing than ever, the Famine Fighter food supply system represents hope — a promise that innovative thinking and collective action can create a world where no one goes to bed hungry.

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A Call to Action

While the progress made by Famine Fighters is inspiring, much work remains. Governments, non-profits, corporations, and individuals must collaborate to:

Support Research and Innovation: Invest in technologies that enhance agricultural productivity and resilience.

Strengthen Global Partnerships: Encourage international cooperation to address the interconnected challenges of famine.

Raise Awareness: Educate the public about the causes of hunger and the actions they can take to contribute to solutions.

Famine Fighter Where to Buy?

Famine Fighter is a survival food kit designed to provide long-lasting, nutritious meals during emergencies. These kits are available for purchase through various online platforms.

Official Website: You can purchase Famine Fighter directly from their official website, which offers detailed information about their products and current pricing

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Pricing

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Contact Info: -

Toll Free: 1–844–842–9791

Email: support@finalfamine.com

Conclusion

Famine Fighters are a testament to humanity’s capacity to tackle even the most daunting challenges. By harnessing innovation, empowering communities, and advocating for systemic change, we can envision a world where famine is a relic of the past. Let us all play our part in this crucial mission, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against hunger.

[agrinextcon]

Empowering Women in Agriculture: Catalysts for Global Change

For centuries, agriculture has been seen as a male-dominated field, but this narrative is swiftly changing. Women are emerging as key players in the global agricultural landscape, driving food security, economic growth, and sustainable development.

The Vital Role of Women in Agriculture

Women account for about 43% of the agricultural labour force in developing countries, with this figure rising to as much as 70% in some  parts of sub-Saharan Africa. They shoulder essential tasks like planting, weeding, harvesting, and processing crops. Additionally, they manage livestock care, food preservation, and small-scale farms. Despite these significant contributions, women in agriculture face numerous challenges, including limited access to land, credit, training, and technology.

BreakingBarriers:Education and Training

Empowering women through education and training is crucial for enhancing their productivity and ensuring their equal participation in agriculture. Various programs and initiatives have been launched to provide women with the knowledge and skills needed to adopt modern farming practices, improve crop yields, and manage their farms more effectively.

For example, the Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA) In India,has trained over 50,000 women farmers, equipping them with modern farming techniques and facilitating access to credit and markets.

Similarly, the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) program has been working to strengthen the research and leadership skills of African women scientists, ensuring they can contribute to the continent’s agricultural growth.

Spotlight on Influential Women in Agriculture

 Dr. Vandana Shiva (India)

Dr. Vandana Shiva has tirelessly advocated for sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty in India, founding    Navdanya,, a national movement to protect indigenous seeds and promote organic farming.Her work has empowered countless women farmers in India to reclaim their rights over seeds and promote organic farming.

Wanjira Mathai (Kenya)

Wanjira Mathai, the daughter of Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai, continues her mother’s legacy through her work in environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture. As the chair of the Green Belt Movement, she has been instrumental in advocating for agroforestry and empowering women in rural Kenya to plant trees and grow food sustainably. Mathai's work has not only improved food security but also addressed climate change and land degradation. 

Leah Penniman (United States)

Leah Penniman is the co-founder of Soul Fire Farm, an Afro-Indigenous centred community farm in New York. She is a leader in the food justice movement and has dedicated her life to ending racism in the food system. Penniman’s work focuses on training the next generation of Black and Brown farmers, promoting regenerative farming practices, and advocating for policies that support small-scale farmers of colour.

Fatou Batta (Burkina Faso)

Fatou Batta is a leading advocate for women’s rights in agriculture and a prominent figure in promoting sustainable agriculture in West Africa. As a key partner with Groundswell International, she has dedicated her efforts to empowering rural women through education, access to credit, and the adoption of ecological farming practices. Batta’s work has significantly improved the lives of thousands of women farmers in Burkina Faso and beyond, helping them to increase their agricultural productivity and achieve greater financial independence.

Women’s Cooperatives: A Path to Economic Empowerment

Women's cooperatives have become a powerful tool for economic empowerment in agriculture. By pooling resources, sharing knowledge, and collectively negotiating prices, these cooperatives allow women to overcome the barriers they face individually. Cooperatives also provide a platform for women to participate in decision-making and leadership roles.

In Kenya, the Kilimanjaro Women Coffee Growers Cooperative has transformed the lives of over 500 women, increasing their income by 40% and reinvesting profits into essential community projects like schools and healthcare.

The Future of Women in Agriculture

The future of agriculture, and indeed the sustainability of our planet, depends on the full inclusion of women. As global challenges like climate change, food insecurity, and population growth intensify, women’s participation in agriculture will be pivotal in achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. To make this a reality, organizations and governments must prioritize policies that promote gender equality in agriculture. This includes ensuring women have equal access to land and resources, providing tailored agricultural extension services, and creating environments where women can thrive as leaders and innovators.

Conclusion

Women are the backbone of agriculture, yet their contributions often go unrecognized. By breaking down the barriers they face and empowering them with the tools and opportunities they need, we can ensure that women continue to drive agricultural growth and development worldwide. The future of global food security depends on harnessing the full potential of women in agriculture.

Spotlight on Women in Agricultural Technology at AgriNext Awards,Conference & Expo 2024

At the upcoming AgriNext Awards, Conference & Expo 2024, the spotlight will shine on 'Women in Agricultural Technology,' where industry leaders will showcase their groundbreaking innovations that are revolutionizing the future of farming.

Women Leading the Charge in Agri-Tech

AgriNext Awards, Conference & Expo 2024 has curated an impressive lineup of women who are at the forefront of technological advancements in agriculture. 

Meet some of the leaders who are pushing the boundaries in their respective fields and inspiring others through their commitment to innovation and sustainable practices:

Gilwoo Lee (South Korea) - CEO of Zordi

Nadine Benchaffai - Venture Builder Director at Dana Global

Dr. Hansa Shingrakhia (India) - Co-Founder of AgriGuru Online

Dr. Christina Timi Igono (Nigeria) - Founder and CEO of Eight Orbit Urban Farms

The "Women in Agricultural Technology" session at AgriNext 2024 is a testament to the growing influence of women in the agri-tech sector. As Gilwoo Lee, Nadine Benchaffi, and other trailblazers take the stage, they will not only share their groundbreaking work but also pave the way for a future where agriculture is more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable.

[jobskenyaplace]

CONSULTANCY CLIMATE RESILIENT AGROFORESTRY VALUE CHAIN ANALYSIS 2024 - WORLD VISION KENYA

WORLD VISION KENYA TENDER JULY 2024   TENDER NOTICE World Vision Kenya (WVK) is a Christian, relief, advocacy and development organization that is committed to improving the well-being of children, fam-ilies and communities in Kenya through projects in most parts of the country. We hereby invite tenders from all qualified and reputable Consultants in Climate Resilient Agroforestry Value Chain…

[valkyries-things]

DR. ASTER GEBREKIRSTOS // SCIENTIST

“She is a Ethiopian senior scientist, leader of the Dendrochronology Laboratory at the Center for International Forestry Research and a professor of agroforestry at World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF). As a dendrochronologist, she established dendrochronology laboratory in Ethiopia in 2009, the dendrochronology laboratory at Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources in 2010, and the World Agroforestry Centre's dendrochronology laboratory in Kenya in 2013.”

[farmerstrend]

Why Smallholder Farmers in Western Kenya Are Championing Native Tree Restoration

Smallholders in Western Kenya strongly support native-tree restoration due to long-term benefits for landscape restoration, productivity and livelihoods, new research shows. Digital tools and community buy-in are successfully backing restoration projects A farmer waters seedlings along the Nzoia River in Siaya, Kenya. African nations have grand ambitions to green up landscapes with trees; the…

[tsmom1219]

Microsoft signs deal to remove 350,000 tonnes of carbon through agroforestry

Read the full story from ESG Today. Microsoft and climate finance company Catona Climate announced today that they have signed a new 6-year offtake agreement, with Microsoft purchasing 350,000 tonnes of carbon removal credits generated through agroforestry projects in Kenya, and marking the latest in a series of large-scale nature-based carbon removal deals for the tech giant.

[thuvarwal]

Land Restoration, Reclamation or Rehabilitation: Agroforestry comes to play

[nipashe411]

Mukau will put cash in your pocket and food on the table Melia volkensii is indigenous to Africa’s arid and semi-arid lands. Common in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and Tanzania, it is sometimes referred to as the African mahogany because of its hard and expensive wood.

[yeracsej]

Planting trees with with Dan at his gorgeous Organic Farm in Munyaka! This soil is so incredibly rich and free from dangerous chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. Dan is using Maasai dung, fermented cow urine and compost tea for additives! Patrick, our Sistema.bio agent is a passionate mobilizer who drove us to meet Dan- this is one of the most beautiful places we have visited here in Kenya-so grateful for this day to Plant fruit trees on a Farm where we know the fruits will be served in their natural form with no dangerous chemicals! Check out that mountain view! . . . . . . . . #nochemical #tree #biocraftreforestationproject #biocrafting #farmorganically #agroforestry #lovelyday #mountainview #hydropower #geothermal #protectmountains #cleanenergy #solar #edicate #collaborate #connect #network #newfriends #munyaka #kenya #eastafrica #monomono #asanti #hakunamatata #feelathome @repage3 (at Munyaka, Gathara) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6FKlRqlKmD/?igshid=gyljbs9aqw02

[irispublishersagriculture]

Iris Publishers - World Journal of Agriculture and Soil Science (WJASS)

Soil Restoration: Drought Resistance, Soil Health Improvement, Toxin Sequestration and Worms

Authored by Leonard Sonnenschein

Land and water systems are on the verge of a collapse due to various failed schemes [1]. The ecological impact on water/land use along with dilutive residues of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and over-use of soil and waterways have led to an inability for land and water systems to be sustainably managed.

The effects of climate change have further marginalized Land and Sea productivity due to change in soil and water conditions and relative cropping/water use equations [2].

Effluents from farm fields are toxifying streams and residues are being built up in adjoined waterways in the form of new eutrophic zones (dead zones); often the result of fertilizers being used to heavily increase agricultural production without consideration of the land and water ecosystem resource impact.

Discussion

The effects of agricultural runoff: nitrogen and phosphates

The agricultural sector is primarily responsible for excess nitrogen in the form of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate, phosphorus, pesticides, and pathogen pollution of water bodies in agricultural zones. Nitrogen and phosphorous are causal to eutrophication in water bodies and affecting aquatic life [3]. In maize production region of Uasin Gishu County, which is Kenya’s food basket, Ontumbi et al. [4] established that River Sosiani was stressed by nutrients (nitrates and phosphorous) originating from agricultural activities resulting in loss of biodiversity [5] and algal blooms. In Zimbabwe, Nyamangara et al. [6] reported that anthropogenic activities within the Upper Manyame Catchment Area (UMCA) were the major sources of nitrate and phosphate pollution in the three rivers and were a serious threat to the environmental sustainability of the rivers and lakes downstream. A study conducted in central Tanzania region of Singida on soils and water resources revealed that nitrate levels in water in the selected locations in Singida Urban District ranges from 105 mg/L to 476 mg/L, the values which are above the maximum recommended standard of 50 mg/L as described by WHO [7] and of 20 mg/L as per TBS [8], thus long term consumption by human beings and animals without treatment to reduce levels of nitrates may result in health problems in human and animals in the area. High levels of nitrates in water in the study area resulted from human activities particularly waste disposal, the use of natural agricultural inputs (animal manure) and crop residuals [9]. Concentration of nitrate in groundwater in many parts of Tanzania is above the background level of 10 mg/l and in some places exceeds WHO maximum recommended levels for drinking water. Highest values were observed in urban areas of Dar es Salaam, Dodoma and Tanga where the concentration of nitrate in some aquifers was higher than 400 mg/l. Generally, in urban areas, concentration of nitrate in groundwater samples decreased as one moved from densely populated areas to sparsely populated areas probably due to decreasing density of sanitation facilities. In rural settings, elevated nitrate concentration in the groundwater probably was contributed by excessive use of fertilizers (inorganic fertilizers and animal manure) [10].

Restoring plant health

Plant health can be affected by lack of either or both macro and micronutrients, disease and pests’ infestations and physiological disorders. Nutrient deficiencies can be as a result of lack or excess of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium or boron, copper, zinc etc. Most croplands of Tanzania have low fertility and nitrogen is the most limiting nutrient [11]. Soil phosphorus availability is commonly low. There are occasional indications of localized Cu, Zn and Mn deficiencies [12].

• Nitrogen deficiency: Low or high pH soils make the problem worse as do sandy and light soils because leaching takes place with the nutrients draining away through the soil too easily.

• Phosphorous (P): Acidic and very alkaline soils worsen the plant health. Crops with poorly developed root systems struggle without enough phosphorous.

• Potassium (K): Drought conditions and high rainfall or heavy irrigation are equally problematic when the balances of potassium are important for healthy green foliage and ensures optimal root growth.

• Magnesium (Mg): Magnesium contributes towards healthy plant development, aids with maturation process to bring forward the harvest and improves yield.

• Calcium (Ca): Calcium is important for healthy foliage and contributes to improved quality of grain and increased yields.

• Sulphur (S): S contributes to green foliage, healthy growth of the maize plant and contributes to an effective uptake of nitrogen by the crop.

• Boron (B): B is particularly important for cob and kernel development.

• Zinc (Zn): Zinc is important for good plant development early in the season and helps improve yields as well as speeds up the maturation of the plant to bring the harvest date forward.

According to Sonnenschein and Etyang [13], maize plants respond to improved soil health visually noted with increased natural moisture retention with soil becoming darker, having more worms per cubic meter of soil also indicating greater soil microbial life, with the stalks and roots being taller and thicker thus resulting in higher plant biomass in addition to doubling the cob production, pest and pathogen-free with far greater nutritional density when compared to the control plants. Clearly, micronutrients play a very important role in the life cycle of a plant.

Restoring tree productivity

Many smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa practice agroforestry. These systems have prevailed despite persistent attempts to introduce monoculture production of annual crops, which have been much less successful in Africa than elsewhere. This calls for use of low-cost option of agroforestry to replenish the lost soil nutrients. Agroforestry has been known to enhance soil fertility, improve farm income, protect water catchments, restore landscapes, conserve biodiversity and resilience against the impacts of climate change in sub Saharan Africa [14]. Soil carbon, in the form of organic matter is an indicator of soil biological activity and health. The use of diverse tree species in agroforestry systems represents alternative forms of increasing soil fertility and sustaining agricultural production [15]. Agroforestry practices have been promoted for decades both in the tropics and temperate regions of the world for their perceived benefits of not only improving soil quality, but also providing other ecosystem services [16]. Many of the environmental benefits and ecosystem services expected from agroforestry would not be materialized unless these practices improved the capacity of soils to be productive and healthy over the long term. Incorporation of trees in agroforestry enhances the Soil Organic Matter (OM) by adding litter both above and belowground. Soil OM is the energy source of soil organisms and influences both soil biodiversity and associated soil biological functions. As a result, Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) is one of the important indicators used in assessing soil health [17].

Agriculture practices affect fisheries productivity, coral reef restoration and water health

Lake Victoria in East Africa has been a recipient of both agricultural and urban waste resulting in an increase in phytoplankton, cyanobacteria, water hyacinth, and eradication of endemic cichlid fishes [3]. Mangroves at the Kenyan coast are under persistent pressure from human activities such as fish farming, manufacturing of salt, agriculture production and housing construction. Mangroves help in siltation of coral reefs and contributes to organic matter and nutrients productivity of the coastal ecosystems [18].

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are photosynthetic and chemosynthetic bacteria that under favorable environmental conditions produce toxic secondary metabolites (cyanotoxins) which are harmful to the environment, including humans. Harmful cyanobacteria, or CyanoHABs, are now a problem of global environmental concern and efforts are being taken to prevent, predict, minimizes, and suppress their occurrences [19]. In nearby Lake Victoria, blooms of cyanobacteria have been observed since 1980 which are associated with massive fish kills [12]. Studies by Kihwele et al., [20] and others in the United Republic of Tanzania have demonstrated the occurrence of toxin producingcyanobacteria in specific regions.

Other indicator species such as Flamingos have shown mortality from the presence of these harmful algal blooms in Tanzania is the mass fatality of Lesser Flamingos in saline lakes in Arusha and Manyara Region [21].

In order to investigate the potential for microcystin (MC) production by cyanobacteria in the Mwanza Gulf (Lake Victoria, Tanzania), nutrients, phytoplankton and microcyst ins were sampled inshore (3m depth) and offshore (18m depth) from May to August 2002. Significant differences in soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) and nitrate concentrations between offshore and inshore indicated eutrophication via terrestrial run-off.

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