Scaling Up African Indigenous Vegetables for Food and Nutrition Security

The National Research Fund (NRF) is committed to funding impactful research that addresses food security and climate resilience in Kenya. One such initiative is the Upscaling African Indigenous Vegetables Climate Smart Technologies for Food and Nutrition Security in Kenya (UPSCALE-AIVs) project, implemented by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) under the leadership of Professor Mary Abukutsa. This project is executed in collaboration with IREN Kenya as a private sector partner and focuses on expanding the production and utilization of African Indigenous Vegetables (AIVs) using climate-smart technologies in Kakamega and Kiambu counties.

Project Objectives

The project aims to promote the cultivation and consumption of African Nightshade and Jute Mallow through sustainable farming methods. Its key objectives include:

• Assessing farmer acceptability of registered AIV varieties.
• Enhancing production using climate-smart technologies.
• Promoting standardized recipes in selected institutions.
• Strengthening commercialization efforts for AIVs.
• Advancing preservation and value-addition techniques.
• Disseminating technical information through diverse platforms.

Key Achievements

Since its inception in November 2023, the project has made notable progress in achieving its objectives. Some of the major milestones include:

• Farmer Training and Sensitization: Farmers in Kakamega and Kiambu counties have been trained on best practices in cultivating registered varieties of African Nightshade and Jute Mallow. These training sessions have enhanced knowledge transfer, equipping farmers with sustainable farming techniques.
• Technology Adoption in AIV Production: The project has introduced and monitored the use of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology as an organic fertilizer alternative, comparing its effectiveness with conventional fertilizers. This approach supports sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
• Strengthening Farmer Aggregation Centers: To support efficient collection and distribution, farmer aggregation centers have been enhanced, including the installation of a charcoal cooler in Shianda, Kakamega, to preserve harvested vegetables.
• Improved Processing Capacity: New solar driers have been installed in both counties, extending the shelf life of AIVs and improving food security through better preservation techniques.
• Dissemination of Information: The project has actively shared knowledge locally, nationally, and internationally through seminars, conferences, and printed promotional materials, raising awareness of the benefits of indigenous vegetables.

Impact on Communities

The project’s impact is already evident at the grassroots level. One notable success story involves a farmer in Kakamega who has transformed her small plot into a model farm. Through the training received, she now applies innovative techniques to cultivate AIVs and produce organic manure, benefiting both her livelihood and the environment. Her farm has become a reference point for other farmers in the community, showcasing the practical benefits of the project’s interventions. Additionally, the demand for AIVs in the region has increased, leading to improved income opportunities for local farmers.

Looking Ahead

As the project progresses toward its completion, efforts continue to ensure the widespread adoption of climate-smart technologies in AIV farming. By fostering collaborations between researchers, farmers, and industry players, the initiative is setting a strong foundation for sustainable food and nutrition security in Kenya.

NRF remains committed to funding research that drives impactful change, reinforcing Kenya’s position as a leader in agricultural innovation. Through continued support for such projects, NRF aims to enhance resilience in the agricultural sector and improve livelihoods across the country.