Sign in Subscribe
Agricultural industry

Promoting Organic Urban Farming in Kenya

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

As the agriculture sector in Kenya continues to grow, experts are advocating for organic urban farming as a means to increase nutritional intake and reduce health risks associated with the use of chemical pesticides. The Agriculture Society of Kenya (ASK) is taking the lead by promoting chemical-free kitchen farming, showcasing innovative farming techniques that can be easily replicated in urban areas. According to Mt Kenya ASK Nanyuki branch chairman, Newtown Kabuthia, "This technology of kitchen and vertical garden anyone can do farming in a very small space." The ASK is hosting a three-day show, starting May 22, where urban residents can learn about establishing vegetable gardens on balconies and verandas, and save on grocery costs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Agriculture Society of Kenya (ASK) is promoting organic urban farming through the improvisation of local materials to grow various vegetables.
  • The ASK is showcasing innovative farming techniques, including vertical gardens, that can be easily replicated in urban areas.
  • Urban residents can learn about establishing vegetable gardens on balconies and verandas, reducing the need for grocery shopping.
  • The use of chemical pesticides is on the increase in Kenya, posing health risks to consumers.
  • Health-conscious consumers are now preferring to grow their own organic vegetables due to the associated health benefits.
  • The ASK theme for this year's show is 'Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiative for Sustainable Economic Growth'.
  • Nearly 100 exhibitors are expected to attend the Nanyuki Show, up from 70 who participated in last year's event.
  • Mt Kenya ASK Nanyuki branch chairman, Newtown Kabuthia, emphasizes the importance of embracing organic farming techniques to reduce health-related complications associated with pesticides.

Statistics:

  • Nearly 100 exhibitors are expected to attend the Nanyuki Show (up from 70 who participated in last year's event).
  • The ASK theme highlights the importance of 'Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiative for Sustainable Economic Growth'.
  • The use of chemical pesticides is on the increase in Kenya, posing health risks to consumers.
  • Health-conscious consumers are now preferring to grow their own organic vegetables due to the associated health benefits.
  • The ASK is promoting chemical-free kitchen farming as a means to increase nutritional intake and reduce health risks associated with chemical pesticides.

Sources:

  • Kenya News Agency (14 May 2025) - "Agricultural Experts Advocating for Organic Urban Farming".
  • The Agriculture Society of Kenya (ASK) (no date) - "ASK Theme: Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiative for Sustainable Economic Growth".
  • The Kenya News Agency is available online at [no link provided].

Read more