Organic Farming in Rural Kenya

Organic farming refers to a farming system that works with nature (exploiting natural cycles) and relies on crop rotation, biological pest control and recycling of organic matter. This means that it avoids or largely excludes use of chemical fertilizers, synthetic pesticides and other additives in livestock feeds. Organic farming operates on the principles of health, care, ecology and fairness. Very basic aspects of organic farming can be traced to eighteenth century through the works of Albrecht Thaer (1752-1828). The need for more food and the attendant intensification of industrialized agriculture that characterized the green revolution of the 1960's failed to meet the initial goal of feeding the world. The Kenyan government and the Non-Governmental Organizations have been promoting organic farming among rural communities as an environmental friendly practice. This book examines the benefits as well as challenges associated with organic farming sector in rural Kenya, using Nembure Division in Embu County as a case study. It Provides an insight into the nexus of agriculture and the environment.