Bringing Agroecology to the Forefront of Agricultural Transformation

The countdown is on to one of the most anticipated agricultural events in East Africa — the Kirinyaga Agroecology Symposium 2025. Jointly organized by the Kenya Organic Agriculture Network (KOAN) and the County Government of Kirinyaga, the symposium will bring together thought leaders, farmers, researchers, and policymakers to reimagine sustainable farming through the lens of agroecology.Over two days, participants will explore how agroecology can address pressing agricultural challenges while offering practical, inclusive, and innovative solutions tailored for the region.

📅 Date: 12th and 13th June 2025
📍  Venue: Kamiigua Polytechnic, Kirinyaga County, Kenya
🎯 Theme: “Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agroecology in East Africa”

Why this Symposium Matters

Across East Africa, farmers are navigating complex issues like climate change, soil degradation, pest outbreaks, and limited market access. The Kirinyaga Agroecology Symposium is designed to provide practical responses to these challenges by promoting science-backed, nature-based solutions rooted in agroecology. The event is more than a conference — it’s a platform for change, for exchanging knowledge, forging partnerships, and igniting action.

Key Objectives

• Knowledge Sharing: Present the latest research, techniques, and agroecological innovations.
• Collaboration & Networking: Connect farmers, traders, input suppliers, policymakers, and grassroots communities.
• Strategic Development: Co-create actionable strategies to integrate agroecology into county and regional development plans.
• Awareness Raising: Sensitize stakeholders about agroecology’s role in achieving food security, climate resilience, and sustainable rural livelihoods.

Tackling Real Farmers’ Challenges

The symposium will zoom in on four critical challenges that agroecology can address:

1. Pest and Disease Management – Showcasing biological pest control, integrated pest management (IPM), and indigenous solutions.
2. Soil Fertility and Health – Exploring composting, green manures, and soil enhancement practices.
3. Climate Resilience – Sharing drought-tolerant methods, water-saving techniques, and climate-smart farming.
4. Market Access and Value Addition – Demystifying certification, connecting farmers to markets, and promoting value-added agroecological products.

Leveraging Opportunities for Farmers

Agroecology isn’t just about farming — it’s about empowerment. The symposium will provide:

• Hands-on workshops and training sessions
• Opportunities to network with policymakers and investors
• Access to innovative agroecological inputs
• Insights into supportive policy frameworks

Who Should Attend?

• Farmers & Farmer Groups – Discover innovative pest, soil, and crop solutions
• Extension Officers & Practitioners – Gain digital tools and field support strategies
• Researchers & Academics – Present or learn about climate-resilient farming studies
• Agro Dealers – Explore the booming market for eco-friendly agri-inputs
• Policymakers & County Officials – Shape policies aligned with sustainable farming
• NGOs & Development Partners – Identify scalable, community-based solutions
• Traders & Retailers – Learn how to build markets for organic and agroecological produce
• Women & Youth in Agriculture – Participate in targeted sessions to showcase their leadership and innovations.

Partnerships That Power Change

The symposium draws strength from a diverse and dynamic pool of partners, including:

• County Government
• Academic Institutions
• NGOs
• Corporate Partners

Agroecology Input Suppliers: The Unsung Heroes

A dedicated exhibition zone will allow agroecology input suppliers to showcase sustainable products like organic compost, bio-fertilizers, pest repellents, and soil enhancers. Live demos, expert panels, and networking sessions will help bridge the gap between innovation and implementation.

What to Expect

Day 1:
✅ Opening Ceremony
✅ Plenary Sessions & Keynote Speeches
✅ Case Study Presentations
✅ Thematic Sessions
✅ Networking Lunch & Evening Reception

Day 2:
✅ Thematic Sessions
✅ Hands-On Workshops
✅ Strategy Development Working Groups
✅ Closing Ceremony with Action Plan Presentations

Registration Link

Register now through this link; https://bit.ly/KirinyagaAgroecologySymposium and stay tuned for exciting program highlights!

By the end of the two-day event, participants will walk away with practical tools, policy recommendations, and new partnerships to drive agroecological transformation not just in Kirinyaga — but across East Africa.