Kenyan bean farmers embrace beneficial insects and fruit trees to combat climate change

In response to growing climate change effects, smallholder bean farmers in Kenya’s Bomet and Homabay counties are using novel and sustainable agricultural techniques to boost resilience and production. By including helpful insects like bees and diversifying their fields with fruit trees (mangoes, avocados, and oranges), these farmers are mitigating the negative impacts of erratic weather patterns, fostering biodiversity, and enhancing human and soil health. This comprehensive strategy is proving to be a game changer, providing a viable paradigm for sustainable farming that strikes a balance between environmental protection, nutrition and economic success.

At the forefront of these efforts is the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, through its Pan Africa Bean Research Alliance (PABRA). By leveraging partnerships and cutting-edge research, PABRA is empowering smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture across Kenya and beyond.